Document Document Title
US07722945B2 Random packing elements and column containing same
A saddle-shaped random packing element is provided with laterally spaced, arcuate side members and a plurality of inner and outer rib elements that extend from and between the side members to form an interior volume. At least one lesser rib element extends from the side members and is at least partially positioned within the interior volume so that at least about 20 percent of the surface area of the packing element is positioned within the interior volume.
US07722939B2 Adhesively securable stock materials
Stock materials for manual and/or high speed industrial automated bonding applications having a curable pre-applied adhesive or sealant compositions on the bonding surfaces wherein the curative for the pre-applied adhesive or sealant composition is contained within a carrier which prevents its premature release.
US07722934B2 Biological repair material compatible with biological tissue adhesive
An object of the present invention is to provide a means for improving the affinity of an in vivo embedded material such as an artificial blood vessel or an artificial dura mater with a tissue adhesive, so as to quickly prevent the leakage of the blood or spinal fluid. The present invention provides a polymeric material used in combination with a tissue adhesive, which comprises carbon or silicon as a constitutional element, and at least a portion of the surface of which is modified by ion bombardment.
US07722933B2 Method and installation for dip coating of a metal strip, in particular of a steel strip
A process for the continuous dip-coating of a metal strip (1) in a tank (11) containing a liquid metal bath (12), in which process the metal strip (1) is made to run continuously through a duct (13), the lower part of which is immersed in the liquid metal bath (12), in order to define with the surface of the bath a liquid seal (14). In the region where the strip (1) leaves the liquid metal bath (12), the liquid metal is isolated from the surface of the bath in an isolating enclosure (20), the metal oxide particles and intermetallic compound particles are recovered by the liquid metal flowing from this region into the enclosure (20), and the particles are extracted from this enclosure (20). Also, a plant for implementing the process.
US07722930B2 Method and apparatus for drying coated film
In a drying method of an aspect of the present invention, drying steps are conducted immediately after coating in a drying zone, and during the execution of drying by blowing the one-way flow drying wind flowing from one edge side to another edge side in the width direction of the continuous support, the windless drying step is conducted in a windless drying zone provided in the drying zone where the drying wind is not blown.
US07722926B2 Organometallic compounds and methods of forming thin films including the use of the same
The present invention provides organometallic compounds and methods of forming thin films including using the same. The organometallic compounds include a metal and a ligand linked to the metal. The ligand can be represented by the following formula (1): wherein R1 and R2 are each independently hydrogen or an alkyl group. The thin films may be applied to semiconductor structures such as a gate insulation layer of a gate structure and a dielectric layer of a capacitor.
US07722925B2 Showerhead mounting to accommodate thermal expansion
Methods and apparatus for accommodating thermal expansion of a showerhead. In a first aspect of the invention, the showerhead is movably supported by resting a rim of the showerhead on a support shelf. In a second aspect, the showerhead is suspended from the chamber wall by a plurality of hangers that are connected to the showerhead, the chamber wall, or both by pins that slide within slots so as to permit the hangers to slide radially to accommodate thermal expansion of the showerhead in the radial direction. In a third aspect, the showerhead is suspended from the wall of the vacuum chamber by a plurality of rods or flexible wires. In a fourth aspect, the showerhead is connected near its perimeter to a second material having a greater thermal expansion coefficient than the showerhead. In a fifth aspect, a heater is mounted behind the showerhead to reduce the temperature differential between the top and bottom surfaces of the showerhead or to reduce heat transfer from the workpiece to the showerhead.
US07722920B2 Method of making an electronic device using an electrically conductive polymer, and associated products
Described are methods of making an electronic device, such as an RFID tag, including fabricating an antenna by depositing an electrically conductive polymer onto a substrate. The electrically conductive polymer is electrically connected to an electronic component, such as an IC chip or a diode. The electronic component may be placed on the substrate before or after the electrically conductive polymer is deposited. Once deposited, the electrically conductive polymer is cured. The electrically conductive polymer may be deposited in a number of ways, such using a mask having a desired pattern and applying the electrically conductive polymer to the mask, by screen printing the electrically conductive polymer or by printing the electrically conductive polymer using ink jet printing techniques.
US07722913B2 Implantable enzyme-based monitoring system having improved longevity due to improved exterior surfaces
An implantable enzyme-based monitoring system suitable for long term in vivo use to measure the concentration of prescribed substances such as glucose is provided. In one embodiment, the implantable enzyme-based monitoring system includes at least one sensor assembly, an outer membrane surrounding the sensor assembly and having a window therein, and a polymeric window cover affixed to the outer membrane and covering the window. Preferably, the outer membrane of the monitoring system is silicone and the window cover is a polymer of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), N,N,-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) and methacrylic acid (MA). Also provided herein is an implantable enzyme-based monitoring system having at least one sensor assembly, an outer membrane surrounding the sensor assembly and a coating affixed to the exterior surface of the outer membrane, wherein the coating resists blood coagulation and protein binding to the exterior surface of the outer membrane. Preferably, the coating is polyethylene glycol (PEG) and heparin in an 80:20 molar ratio. Finally, provided herein is a method of coating the exterior surface of the outer membrane of an implantable enzyme-based monitoring system comprising the steps of forming hydroxyl groups on the silicone surface by plasma etching; reacting the silicone surface with amino functionalized silane, thereby forming amino groups on the silicone surface; simultaneously, covalently binding polyethylene glycol (PEG) and heparin to the amino groups; and ionically binding heparin to the monitoring system surface.
US07722905B2 Method to reduce odor of excreta from companion animals
A method is provided for reducing odor of excreta of a companion animal. The method comprises causing the animal to ingest a composition comprising an excreta odor reducing effective amount of a zingiberaceous spice such as ginger or an extract thereof, or an excreta odor reducing effective amount of fiber together with another odor reducing agent.
US07722904B2 Compositions and methods for stimulating synthesis of pro-collagen or collagen and hyaluronic acid
A method for improving the appearance, texture and/or moisture of skin comprising administering a composition comprising Chia Seed oil, Opuntia ficus Indica extract, or both to stimulate collagen or hyaluronic acid synthesis, or decrease Interleukin-1b synthesis, in the skin.
US07722901B2 Uses for the extract of a plant of the family Asclepiadaceae
A composition including (a) an extract from a plant of the Asclepiadaceae family; and (b) at least one auxiliary and/or additive, and methods for treating hair growth including administering to a mammal a composition comprising an effective amount of an extract from a plant of the Asclepiadaceae family are provided.
US07722900B2 Effect of porcine sheath proteins on the regeneration activity of periodontal ligament
The purpose of this study was to identify the periodontal regeneration factors in enamel protein shown to induce cementum- and osteo-promotive activities in vivo. The cementum regeneration (CR), a part of periodontal regeneration, was examined by using experimental cavities prepared in a buccal dehiscence dog model. The CR activity was found in the aggregate consisted of sheath proteins along with a small amount of amelogenins separated from newly formed secretory enamel. The sheath proteins were purified to be homogeneous, and examined for the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) inducing activity of human periodontal ligament (HPDL) cells. Application of 17 kDa sheath protein induced ALP activity in HPDL cells. Peptides synthesized from the sheath protein sequence also showed ALP inducing activity. The 17 kDa sheath protein has cell differentiation activity.
US07722898B2 Modified-release preparations containing oxcarbazepine and derivatives thereof
Controlled-release preparations of oxcarbazepine and derivatives thereof for once-a-day administration are disclosed. The inventive compositions comprise solubility-and/or release enhancing agents to provide tailored drug release profiles, preferably sigmoidal release profiles. Methods of treatment comprising the inventive compositions are also disclosed.
US07722896B2 Polyarylates for drug delivery and tissue engineering
Biocompatible polyarylates of diphenol compounds and poly(alkylene oxide) dicarboxylic acids, articles formed therefrom and therapeutic uses are disclosed.
US07722895B1 Osteogenic implants with combined implant materials, and materials and methods for same
Described are osteogenic implants that include a first implant material covered at least in part by a second implant material carrying an osteogenic protein such as a bone morphogenic protein. The first implant material can comprise a mineral and provide an inner scaffolding portion for supporting bone ingrowth, and the second implant material can comprise a collagen or other sponge carrier covering the first implant material and having a liquid osteogenic protein formulation imbibed therein. Related implant materials and methods of preparation and use constitute additional aspects of the invention.
US07722892B2 Compounds
An adjuvant suitable for use with a lipophilic agrochemical has the formula (I), R1—(CO)m—O—[—R2O—]n—R3, wherein R1 is a C16 to C20 straight or branched chain alkyl or alkenyl group, R2 is ethyl or isopropyl, n is from 8 to 30 and m is 0 or 1 and when R2 is ethyl, R3 is a C1 to C7 alkyl group and when R2 is isopropyl, R3 is hydrogen or a C1 to C7 alkyl group, provided that when R1 is oleyl, R2 is isopropyl and R3 is hydrogen, n is not 10. An adjuvant composition comprising an agrochemical and an adjuvant of formula (I) is also claimed. Adjuvants of the invention show effective bioperformance enhancement despite having little or no surfactant properties.
US07722890B2 Synthetic anti-Candida albicans oligosaccharide based vaccines
The present invention provides methods of making and using immunogenic oligosaccharide compositions comprising native O-linked and S-linked oligosaccharides coupled to a protein carrier, wherein the resultant conjugate elicits a protectively immunogenic response. These compositions may be useful in vaccines against pathogenic Candida species.
US07722889B2 Plasmodium liver stage antigens
The invention provides isolated liver stage Plasmodium polypeptides comprising an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 1-48 and immunogenic derivatives thereof. The invention also provides isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding the liver stage Plasmodium polypeptides of the invention, compositions comprising one or more liver stage Plasmodium polypeptides of the invention, methods for inducing an immune response against the liver stage Plasmodium polypeptides, and methods for treating and diagnosing liver stage malaria.
US07722887B1 Detoxified mutants of escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin
The present invention relates to detoxified and immunologically active proteins (“mutant LTs”) having mutated amino acid sequences of heat-labile enterotoxin of E. coli, DNA sequences encoding the mutant LTs, recombinant expression vectors comprising the DNAs, recombinant microorganisms transformed with the recombinant expression vectors, process for preparing the mutant LTs and pharmaceutical application of the said protein as immunogenic antigens for vaccination and as adjuvants for anti-body production. In contrast to wild-type LT, the mutant LTs did not induce any toxic activities. The mutant LTs elicited high and comparable levels of anti-LT antibodies when delivered either intragastrically or intranasally, inducing systemic and local responses in serum and fecal extracts. Thus, they might be useful for the development of a novel diarrheal vaccine in humans and animals. In addition, the antibody production ability using mutant LTs as an adjuvant may be effective for prevention and treatment of various diseases.
US07722886B2 Compositions and methods for treatment of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)
Compositions and methods for treating Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are disclosed herein. Inhibitors of SARS-associated inflammatory cytokines are provided herein for use in treating SARS, including SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infection. Inhibitors of TNF are disclosed herein, as is the use of said inhibitors for treating SARS, including SARS-CoV. Methods of identifying and screening for said inhibitors are also provided.
US07722884B2 Vaccines and methods to treat canine influenza
The present invention relates to providing new vaccines and treatments for the diseases related to canine influenza virus. It discloses influenza viral antigens, and methods of presenting these antigens to canines, especially dogs. It relates to attenuated and killed vaccines. The present invention relates to experimentally generated canine and equine influenza viruses. The invention also includes influenza A, including H3, N8, H3N8, H7N7 and viruses which contain at least one genome segment from an canine or equine influenza virus. The present invention also relates to the use of these viruses in therapeutic compositions to protect canines, dogs in particular, from diseases caused by influenza viruses.
US07722881B2 Chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (CAT)-defective somatostatin fusion protein and uses thereof
Chimeric somatostatin-based polypeptides, polynucleotides used to encode the polypeptides, the methods for isolating and producing the polypeptides and the uses thereof are provided. In addition, low cost adjuvants for enhanced immunogenic response are provided. Vaccinations that include both chimeric somatostatin-based polypeptides and novel adjuvants are included, useful in facilitating farm animal productivity.
US07722880B2 Immunoreactive 38-KDA ferric binding protein of ehrlichia canis and uses thereof
The present invention is directed to the cloning, sequencing, expression, and characterization of an immunoreactive ferric binding protein (Fbp) (38-kDa) protein of Ehrlichia canis encoded by a polynucleotide therefor. In particular embodiments, the protein is employed in an immunogenic composition, such as a vaccine. Methods to induce an immune reaction in an individual with compositions of the invention are provided.
US07722879B2 Babesia vaccines
The invention relates to Babesia proteins of a 28kDa protein family and to immunogenic fragments of such proteins, to nucleic acids encoding such proteins or fragments, to cDNA fragments, recombinant DNA molecules, live recombinant carriers, or host cells comprising such nucleic acids, to vaccines, to methods for the preparation of such vaccines, to the use of such proteins or fragments for the prophylactic or therapeutic treatment of an infection or its clinical signs caused by an organism of the family Babesiidae, and to diagnostic tests for detection of nucleic acids, antibodies or antigens of an organism of the family Babesiidae.
US07722877B2 Coccidiosis vaccines
The present invention relates to hydrophilic Eimeria polypeptides, DNA-fragments encoding those peptides, recombinant DNA molecules comprising such DNA-fragments, live recombinant carriers comprising such DNA-fragments or recombinant DNA molecules and host cells comprising such DNA-fragments, recombinant DNA molecules or live recombinant carriers. Furthermore, the invention relates to antibodies against the polypeptides and to coccidiosis vaccines based upon said polypeptides. The invention also relates to methods for the preparation of such antibodies and vaccines, and to methods for the detection of Eimeria parasites and antibodies against Eimeria parasites.
US07722872B2 Treatment of cancer with antibodies to costimulating polypeptide of T cells
A polypeptide (8F4 molecule) with a T-cell costimulating biological activity is disclosed, as well as monoclonal antibodies against the 8F4 molecule and hybridoma cells which produce the monoclonal antibodies, the use as medicaments of substances which inhibit the biological activity of the 8F4 polypeptide, in particular monoclonal antibodies, natural or synthetic ligands, agonists or antagonists, in particular for preventing or treating diseases which involve the immune system, the use of the 8F4 molecule or cells containing the 8F4 molecule as medicaments, in particular for preventing or treating diseases which involve the immune system, and the use of substances which specifically recognize the 8F4 polypeptide, in particular monoclonal antibodies, natural or synthetic ligands, agonists or antagonists, for diagnosing diseases which involve the immune system.
US07722870B2 Method of treating fibroproliferative disorders
Materials and methods for reducing cell proliferation or extracellular matrix production in a mammal are disclosed. The methods comprise administering to a mammal a composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a zvegf4 antagonist in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable delivery vehicle. Exemplary zvegf4 antagonists include anti-zvegf4 antibodies, inhibitory polynucleotides, inhibitors of zvegf4 activation, and mitogenically inactive, receptor-binding variants of zvegf4. The materials and methods are useful in the treatment of, inter alia, fibroproliferative disorders of the kidney, liver, and bone.
US07722868B2 Agents that modulate the interaction of B7-1 polypeptide with PD-L1 and methods of use thereof
Disclosed are methods for modulating an immune response including a method for inhibiting the interaction between a B7 polypeptide and a PD-1 ligand, the method comprising contacting an immune cell bearing a PD-1 ligand, or an immune cell bearing a B7 polypeptide, with an agent that inhibits the interaction between the PD-1 ligand and the B7 polypeptide. Such agents may be an anti-PD-1 ligand antibody or a small molecule. Also disclosed is a method for modulating an immune response comprising contacting an immune cell bearing the PD-1 ligand, or an immune cell bearing the PD-1 polypeptide, with an agent that inhibits interactions between the PD-1 ligand and the PD-1 polypeptide, without inhibiting interactions between the PD-1 ligand and a B7 polypeptide, to thereby modulate an immune response. The agent may be an anti-PD-1 ligand antibody or a small molecule.
US07722865B2 Manufacture of active highly phosphorylated human lysosomal sulfatase enzymes and uses thereof
This invention provides compositions of active highly phosphorylated lysosomal sulfatase enzymes, their pharmaceutical compositions, methods of producing and purifying such lysosomal sulfatase enzymes and compositions and their use in the diagnosis, prophylaxis, or treatment of diseases and conditions, including particularly lysosomal storage diseases that are caused by, or associated with, a deficiency in the lysosomal sulfatase enzyme.
US07722857B2 Immunoadjuvant
An immunoadjuvant comprising one kind or two or more kinds of immunostimulating substances carried separately by two or more kinds of different microparticle immunostimulating substance carriers, and comprising at least a combination of (a) an inorganic substance such as microparticle calcium phosphate having a size phagocytizable by cells, and (b) precipitates of a soluble protein and a mucopolysaccharide formed by coacervation as the microparticle immunostimulating substance carriers, which is highly safe and can exhibit potent immunoadjuvant activity.
US07722856B2 Process for the production of a radioactive aerosol
A method for forming an inhalable isotope compound suitable for use in patient medical diagnosis, the method comprising the steps of: (a) electrolytic loading of a carbon crucible with the isotope; (b) sublimating any isotope carrier in the crucible; (c) ablating the isotope in a carbon crucible, forming an ablation aerosol; (d) directly delivering the aerosol for immediate use by a patient. The isotope can comprise technetium.
US07722854B2 Steam reforming methods and catalysts
The present invention provides catalysts, reactors, and methods of steam reforming over a catalyst. Surprisingly superior results and properties obtained in methods and catalysts of the present invention are also described. For example, a coated catalyst was demonstrated to be highly stable under steam reforming conditions (high temperature and high pressure of steam). Methods of making steam reforming catalysts are also described.
US07722853B2 Catalysts for the evolution of hydrogen from borohydride solution
Organic pigments are capable of catalyzing the decomposition reaction of hydrogen-rich, stabilized, borohydride solutions to generate hydrogen gas on-board an operable hydrogen-consuming device such as a motor vehicle or other combustion engine. The organic pigments are used in hydrogen generating systems and in methods for controlling the generation of hydrogen gas from metal hydride solutions.
US07722850B2 Process for sequestration of carbon dioxide by mineral carbonation
The invention provides a process for sequestration of carbon dioxide by mineral carbonation comprising the following steps: (a) converting a magnesium or calcium sheet silicate hydroxide into a magnesium or calcium ortho- or chain silicate by bringing the silicate hydroxide in direct or indirect heat-exchange contact with hot synthesis gas to obtain the silicate, silica, water and cooled synthesis gas; (b) contacting the silicate obtained in step (a) with carbon dioxide to convert the silicate into magnesium or calcium carbonate and silica.
US07722846B2 Method for preparing electroconductive mayenite type compound
Provided is a method for preparing an electroconductive mayenite type compound with good properties readily and stably at low cost.A production method of an electroconductive mayenite type compound comprising a step of subjecting a precursor to heat treatment, is a method for preparing an electroconductive mayenite type compound, comprising a step of subjecting a precursor to heat treatment; wherein the precursor is a vitreous or crystalline material, which contains Ca and Al, in which a molar ratio of (CaO:Al2O3) is from (12.6:6.4) to (11.7:7.3) as calculated as oxides, and in which a total amount of CaO and Al2O3 is at least 50 mol %, and wherein the heat treatment is heat treatment comprising holding the precursor at a heat treatment temperature T of from 600 to 1415° C. and in an inert gas or vacuum atmosphere with an oxygen partial pressure PO2 in a range ofPO2≦105×exp [{−7.9×l04/(T+273)}+14.4] in the unit of Pa.
US07722843B1 System and method for sequestration and separation of mercury in combustion exhaust gas aqueous scrubber systems
A process, system and sorbent for removal of mercury from a combustion exhaust gas stream in a combustion exhaust gas purification scheme that includes a combustion exhaust scrubber system that uses an aqueous liquid to remove acid gases from the combustion exhaust gas. A powdered mercury sorbent is used. The sorbent is introduced into the aqueous scrubber liquid in the scrubber system. After introduction of the mercury sorbent into the scrubber liquid, at least some of the mercury sorbent is separated from the scrubber liquid.
US07722842B2 Carbon dioxide sequestration using alkaline earth metal-bearing minerals
A method for mineral sequestration of pollutant gases resulting from the combustion of carbon-based fuels such as carbon and sulfur dioxides is provided and includes, providing a particulate magnesium-containing mineral and exposing the magnesium-containing mineral to a weak acid to dissolve magnesium from the mineral and form a magnesium-containing solution. The surface of the particulate magnesium-containing mineral is physically activated to expose and dissolve additional magnesium into the solution. Pollutant gases such as carbon dioxide are mixed with the magnesium-containing solution. When the pH of the magnesium-containing solution is increased, solid magnesium carbonate is formed.
US07722838B2 System and device for prevention and neutralization of bioactive substances and generating an aroma-producing substance
An on-demand system for preventing and/neutralizing bioactive substances employs real time monitoring of the fluid for bioactive substances. Once a specific bioactive substance is detected, then a specific neutralizing substance is selected, such as an oxidizing substance, intense ultraviolet light, a neutralizing substance or other substances selected for particular threats. In another example of the invention, a device neutralizing a substance would include a container that would be capable of containing each of the plurality of precursors, a collecting space for receiving each of the plurality of precursors selected by the selector, and a dispensing mechanism for dispensing the neutralizing substance. In one example the neutralizing substance is formulated by the reactions of the precursors in order to neutralize the substance. The device may alternatively select a plurality of precursors to produce an aroma-producing substance and alternatively may neutralize the aroma-producing substance if it harmful or lethal, for example.
US07722837B2 Medical instrument retainer assembly and method of making the retainer
A retainer assembly for retaining a medical device in a container having a perforated wall includes a retainer with a rigid support portion having at least one leg and a flexible, resilient instrument holding portion intimately bonded to the support portion so that the retainer is devoid of cracks and crevices between said portions. Each leg has a free end and an axial passage extending into the leg from that end so that the retainer may be positioned on the container wall with each opening in register with a perforation therein. A fastener extends into the passage of each leg and the underlying perforation from below the wall to anchor each leg to the wall under pressure thereby providing a seal between each leg and the wall. Various retainer embodiments and a method for making same are also disclosed.
US07722836B1 Device and method for neutralizing chemical agents
The Chemical-agent Access and Neutralization System (CANS) of the present invention is a small, portable, single-use, disposable chemical treatment apparatus that is used to access and treat Chemical Agent Identification Set (CAIS) ampoules, bottles and/or containers that contain vesicant agents, or chemical warfare agents such as mustard or Lewisite. The apparatus and method of use of the present invention provides a resultant treatment residue that remains totally contained in the CANS treatment container and is safe for disposal. The CANS treatment container can be over packed into a Department of Transportation (DOT) certified shipping container, and shipped to permitted hazardous waste management facilities for ultimate disposal.
US07722833B2 Microchannel reactor
A microchannel reactor is described which has at least one process microchannel and at least one heat exchange zone. The microchannel reactor may be used for conducting a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis reaction.
US07722830B2 System for decomposing organic compound
A system for decomposing a liquid or gaseous organic compound comprises a ultraviolet decomposition unit and an intermediate product treatment apparatus. The ultraviolet decomposition unit decomposes an organic compound contained in polluted liquid or polluted gas by irradiating ultraviolet rays whose wavelength is less than 300 nm to the polluted liquid or the polluted gas containing the organic compound. An acid electrolytic water feed pipe and an alkali electrolytic water feed pipe are respectively connected to the intermediate product treatment apparatus through valves to neutralize an intermediate product, which results from decomposition of the organic compound, for decomposition by selectively adding strong alkali electrolytic water and strong acid electrolytic water to the polluted liquid or the polluted gas containing the intermediate product.
US07722821B2 Sample cup for use in X-ray spectroscopy with internal overflow reservoir
A sample cup for retaining a sample material to be subjected to an x-ray spectrochemical analysis. The sample cup comprises a cell body of a cylindrical configuration having an open top end and an open bottom end and defining a hollow between the two open ends, the open top end having an outer wall and an inner wall encircling the open top end. The outer wall and the inner wall extend axially and are positioned in concentric relationship with one another and form a reservoir space therebetween.
US07722819B2 Fragrance product, dispenser, and dispenser assembly
A fragrance product is disclosed including a container containing liquid fragrance and a dispenser assembly for dispensing the liquid fragrance including a transport assembly and a tube connected to the transport assembly and extending into the liquid fragrance. The tube and the liquid fragrance each have a refractive index, and the difference between the refractive index of the tube and the liquid fragrance is not greater than about 0.04.
US07722815B2 Chemical analysis apparatus and chemical analysis method
Provided is a chemical analysis apparatus comprising a mechanism which can efficiently agitate a substance to be agitated so that a sample and a reagent are agitated and mixed together in a shorter time with a saved consumption power, incorporating a plurality of sound sources or reflecting plates, and a reaction container is located between one of the sound sources and another of the sound sources or one of the reflecting plates, whereby sound waves can be irradiated toward the reaction container in several directions in order to efficiently fluidize a solution in the reaction container.
US07722812B2 Reaction disk and separation cell for automatic analyzer
A reaction disk provides a compact and inexpensive design of an automatic analyzer so that the constituents in a suspension, such as blood sampled from a patient at a sick room or other place in a hospital, can be analyzed immediately and quantitatively. A separation cell and a determination cell are formed in a same reaction disk so as to maintain an upright position even during rotation of the both cells. The separation cell is formed to prevent poured suspension therein from flowing out during centrifugal separation, and a supernatant separated by centrifugation from the suspension contained in the separation cell is dispensed to the determination cell to analyze a target substance in the supernatant.
US07722805B2 Titanium alloy with extra-low modulus and superelasticity and its producing method and processing thereof
The patent provides the titanium alloy with extra-low modulus and superelasticity containing 20˜35 wt. % niobium, 2˜15 wt. % zirconium, balanced titanium and other unavoidable impurity elements. The advantages of the invention alloy are shown as follows: The invention titanium alloy has superior cold processing capacity and low work hardening rate; It can be severely deformed by cold rolling and cold drawing; It has superelasticity, shape memory effect, damping capacity, low modulus, high strength, good corrosion resistance and high biocompatibility; The invention titanium alloy can be made into nano-size materials by cold deformation and extra high strength can be achieved by heat treatment.
US07722804B2 Method of manufacturing a pressed scandate dispenser cathode
In a method of manufacturing a pressed scandate dispenser cathode, firstly, scandium nitrate, barium nitrate, calcium nitrate, aluminum nitrate and ammonium metatungstate (AMT) are dissolved in de-ionized water, respectively, and then mixed with a solution of a cross-link agent such as citric acid and H2O2. After water bathing, the mixed aqueous solution turns into gel, and the powders are obtained after the gel calcination. Secondly, the calcined powders are reduced by hydrogen. Finally, the reduced powders are pressed into shapes and then sintered in the furnace with the atmosphere of hydrogen or by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS 3.202-MK-V) in vacuum.
US07722803B2 High carbon surface densified sintered steel products and method of production therefor
A powder mixture alloy is provided for manufacturing surface densified high carbon sintered steel articles containing iron or iron pre-alloyed powder, which has been preliminary mixed with at least 0.4 wt % graphite, lubricant and optionally at least one alloying element from the group of nickel, chromium, copper, manganese and molybdenum. Components are manufactured utilizing the alloy mixture comprising the steps of: a) compacting the metallic powder to obtain a compact; b) pre-sintering the compact at a low temperature to prevent graphite from diffusing into the iron; c) surface densifying of the pre-sintered compact to a predetermined densification depth; d) sintering under neutral gas or carburizing atmosphere; e) heat treating the sintered compact.
US07722802B2 Coated powder particles for producing three-dimensional bodies by means of a layer constituting method
The invention relates a powder material consisting of coated particles for a powder-based rapid generative prototyping methods, in particular by compressing a 3D binder. Said powder material consists of individual plastic, metal and/or ceramic particles and/or granules. A coating essentially consists of an adhesive agent which can be activated by a liquid binder, light or laser light, and of sinterable or glass-forming fine-grained material. Said invention also relates to a method for compressing 3D binder with the aid of an organic solvent having a water content less than 45% and to sintered bodies, in particular for moulding or precision mechanical engineering, which are fixed to each other by sintering or glass formation from a fine grained material.
US07722791B2 Method for manufacturing honeycomb structure and manufacturing apparatus thereof
A method of manufacturing a honeycomb structure having a plugged portion, wherein a mask is applied to the honeycomb structure, a plugging material is supplied on the mask or on the same plane as a surface of the mask, and a pressurizing apparatus disposed at an acute angle with respect to the surface of the mask and having a pressurizing face for pressurizing the plugging material is moved to fill the plugging material into the cells of the honeycomb structure. The pressurizing apparatus is moved on the mask with a part of the region of the pressurizing face being brought into surface contact with the mask via the plugging material to pressurize the plugging material toward the cell side and to push out an extra plugging material in the direction of movement to further pressurize and fill the material into the cells with forming the region of the surface contact.
US07722790B2 Anamorphic microlens array
An LC display comprises in order (a) a light source, (b) a transparent polymeric film bearing on the light exit surface of the film an array of close-packed convex microlenses having a distribution of sizes and oriented in one direction, whereby the light output is preferentially spread in a desired direction, and (c) an LC panel. A related process and film are also disclosed.
US07722780B2 Refrigerant composition and process for preparation thereof
The present application provides a refrigerant composition for a single stage refrigeration system operation comprising: more than 25 molar percent but less than 30 molar percent of Nitrogen; at least some but less than 20 molar percent of Methane; more than 30 molar percent but less than 70 molar percent of Propane, Argon, Helium, Neon and combinations thereof, and optionally up to 45 molar percent of Ethane, Ethylene and combinations thereof and a process for preparing the said composition.
US07722778B2 Methods and apparatus for sensing unconfinement in a plasma processing chamber
Universal plasma unconfinement detection systems configured to detect the plasma unconfinement condition in the plasma processing chamber and methods therefor. The detection systems and methods are designed to reliably and accurately detect the existence of the plasma unconfinement condition in a process-independent and recipe-independent manner.
US07722775B2 Method and system of destruction of volatile compounds in wastewater
The invention proposes a method of destruction of volatile organic and inorganic compounds in wastewater, this method includes following stages: stripping the aforementioned volatile compounds in a stripping-chemisorption column; preliminary heating the gaseous medium containing these volatile compounds in a first heat regenerator; thermal, flare or thermo-catalytic oxidation of the volatile compounds in circulating gaseous medium; cooling the gaseous medium in a second heat regenerator; chemisorption of acidic gases from the gaseous medium in the stripping-chemisorption column with stripping at the same time additional amount of the volatile compounds from the wastewater. After specific period, direction of the gaseous medium flow is alternated. The proposed method can be executed at elevated temperature. The invention includes as well systems realizing the proposed method.
US07722770B2 Method for treating produced water
Systems and methods have been developed for treating the waste water contaminated with methanol and boron in addition to other contaminants. The systems and methods allow specifically for the removal of the methanol and boron without the addition of significant chemicals to raise the pH. The water is treated by removing the methanol via biological digestion in a bioreactor, separating a majority of the contaminants from the water by reverse osmosis and removing the boron that passes through the reverse osmosis system with a boron-removing ion exchange resin.
US07722769B2 Method for treating wastewater
This invention is directed to a wastewater treatment system having a fluidizable media carrying anoxic bacteria in a first treatment zone and a filter membrane positioned in a second treatment zone. A wastewater is contacted with the fluidizable media and further contacted with air and a filter membrane.
US07722768B2 Process for the simultaneous removal of BOD and phosphate from waste water
The invention is directed to a process for the simultaneous removal of BOD and phosphate from a liquid containing ammonium, BOD, phosphate and magnesium, the method comprising: feeding the liquid to a reactor containing BOD-oxidising biomass; ensuring that the liquid in the reactor contains an excess to stoichiometry of ammonium and magnesium relative to phosphate, wherein the stoichiometry is related to the stoichiometry of struvite; oxidising at least part of the BOD; adjusting the pH of the liquid in the reactor at a desired value; forming solid material in the reactor, the solid material comprising struvite; separating at least part of the solid material from the reactor effluent; returning a part of the solid material to the reactor. The invention is also directed to a reactor for this process. The advantage of the process and the apparatus is that in one reactor both BOD and phosphate are removed from the liquid.
US07722766B2 Filter cartridge including a snap-on rim connector
The invention relates to a filter cartridge (1), especially a suction filter cartridge, which is provided, in the outlet opening (20), with an inward-pointing, peripheral snap-on rim (22) which can be folded from a first lower snap position into a second upper snap position and vice versa. The invention also relates to a seat element (30) for such a filter cartridge, comprising a connection sleeve (33) which engages with the outlet opening (20) of the filter cartridge (1). Said connecting sleeve (33) comprises at least one actuator which displaces, when the filter cartridge (1) is placed on the rim, the snap-on rim from a first lower snap position to the second upper snap-on rim from a first lower snap position to the second upper snap positioning which the snap-on rim rests against the connecting sleeve (33) in a sealing and clamping manner.
US07722765B2 Molecular arrangement magnetic treatment apparatus and method
A molecular arrangement magnetic treatment apparatus and method includes an apparatus including a material passageway configured for having material flow therethrough. At least one pair of magnets are provided oriented such that material in the material passageway passes through a magnetic field effect produced by the at least one pair of magnets, where the at least one pair of magnets is oriented such that a north pole of a first magnet of the at least one pair of magnets is adjacent a south pole of a second magnet of the at least one pair of magnets and a south pole of the first magnet is adjacent a north pole of the second magnet, where the poles of the first magnet provide a first resultant magnetic field and the poles of the second magnet provide a second resultant magnetic field, where the first and second resultant magnetic fields jointly define the magnetic field effect and where the first and second magnets are each movable such that relative alignment of the first magnet with respect to the second magnet is dictated by interaction of the first and second resultant magnetic fields.
US07722761B2 Filtering device with flow adjuster
A filtering device for filtering water and liquids in general comprises a first reservoir for collecting the water to be filtered, a second reservoir for collecting the filtered water, which reservoir is supplied by falling from the first reservoir, a conduit which extends from the first reservoir into the second reservoir, a cartridge type filtering element which is removably received in the conduit, a discharge hole for the filtered water that is positioned between the conduit and the second reservoir, and at least one opening for access to the cartridge provided at an end of the conduit that is distal from the first reservoir in order to promote the removal thereof. The device comprises an at least partial closure which can be removably fitted to the conduit in the region of the opening for access to the cartridge and comprises a flow adjuster which is associated with the conduit in order to adjust the flow of water flowing from the first reservoir to the second reservoir through the discharge hole.
US07722759B2 Apparatus, system, and method for separating minerals from mineral feedstock
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for separating minerals from mineral feedstock—for example bitumen from tar sand. The apparatus includes residence chambers for contacting solvent and tar sand. The solvent-tar sand contact occurs in at least two stages. The drained miscella from the first stage is sent to a flashing module to separate the miscella into recovered solvent, a bitumen stream, and a volatile hydrocarbons stream. Solvent is recycled from the final stage and reused in the residence chambers. An energy recovery module recovers the energy from the volatile hydrocarbons stream. A solvent stripper removes the solvent residue from the drained tar sand to create a cleaned sand stream, and the solvent stripper recycles the solvent vapors to energize and assist the separation process. The apparatus enables a water-free, energy efficient, and nearly complete recovery of bitumen from tar sand.
US07722758B2 Process for separating colour bodies and/or asphalthenic contaminants from a hydrocarbon mixture
Process for separating colour bodies and/or asphalthenic contaminants from a hydrocarbon mixture using a membrane having a feed side and a permeate side, by contacting the hydrocarbon mixture with the feed side of the membrane, and by removing at the permeate side a hydrocarbon permeate having a reduced content of colour bodies and/or asphalthenic contaminants, wherein the membrane is arranged in a spirally wound membrane module.
US07722757B1 Process for the production of hydrogen from water
A method and device for the production of hydrogen from water and electricity using an active metal alloy. The active metal alloy reacts with water producing hydrogen and a metal hydroxide. The metal hydroxide is consumed, restoring the active metal alloy, by applying a voltage between the active metal alloy and the metal hydroxide. As the process is sustainable, only water and electricity is required to sustain the reaction generating hydrogen.
US07722756B2 Process for multiple stage direct electrowinning of copper
A system and process for recovering copper from a copper-containing ore, concentrate, or other copper-bearing material to produce high quality cathode copper from a leach solution without the use of copper solvent/solution extraction techniques or apparatus. A process for recovering copper from a copper-containing ore generally includes the steps of providing a feed stream containing comminuted copper-containing ore, concentrate, or other copper-bearing material, leaching the feed stream to yield a copper-containing solution, conditioning the copper-containing solution through one or more physical or chemical conditioning steps, and electrowinning copper directly from the copper-containing solution in multiple electrowinning stages, without subjecting the copper-containing solution to solvent/solution extraction prior to electrowinning.
US07722754B2 Microstructure and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a microstructure wherein an aluminum member having an aluminum substrate and a micropore-bearing anodized film present on a surface of the aluminum substrate is subjected at least to, in order, a pore-ordering treatment which involves performing one or more cycles of a step that includes a first film dissolution treatment for dissolving the anodized film until a barrier layer has a thickness of 3 to 50 nm, and an anodizing treatment which follows the first film dissolution treatment; and a second film dissolution treatment for dissolving the anodized film so that a ratio of a diameter of a micropore opening “a” to a micropore diameter at a height “a/2” from a micropore bottom “b” (a/b) is in a range of 0.9 to 1.1, whereby the microstructure having micropores formed on a surface thereof is obtained. The manufacturing method enables microstructures having an ordered array of pits to be obtained in a short period of time.
US07722745B2 Device for plating contacts in hermetic connector assemblies
This invention relates generally to a method and apparatus for electroplating selected portions of elongate and generally cylindrical metallic articles pre assembled and held in spaced-apart fashion into a nonconductive support member encircled by a metallic tube like member one portion of article extending from one side of support member with the opposing portion of article extending from the opposing end of support member including a locating device to receive the articles so the portion of the articles to be electroplated extends downwardly. At least one plating cell is provided adjacent the lower region for contacting the downwardly extending portion of the articles with plating liquid whereas the plating liquid is ejected towards the articles including at least one conducting device for electric current is provided adjacent to the upper region for engaging with the portion of article extending upwardly whereas the electric current is being distributed to articles evenly and complete.
US07722744B2 Pressing device
The invention relates to a device (12) which is used to press a pressure shoe (10) against a counter surface, comprising at least one at least partially flexible pressure body (16) which is supported on the bearing body (14), said pressure body comprising at least one cavity (18) which can be impinged upon by pressure fluid in order to produce a predetermined pressing force over a corresponding pressure body volume.
US07722743B2 Method for manufacturing a felt belt, and felt belt
The invention is a method for manufacturing a felt belt having a support which is embedded in a fiber matrix and is made up of at least two yarn layers arranged one above another, at least one is a longitudinal yarn layer made up of longitudinal yarns extending in parallel fashion, and at least one is a transverse yarn layer made up of transverse yarns extending in parallel fashion, transverse yarns being present that are continuous over the width of the felt belt. For each longitudinal yarn layer, a first support module is manufactured, by means of a first auxiliary support web, at a width that is less than the width of the completed felt belt, the first auxiliary support web being wound in helical fashion, before, during, or after the application of yarns, to a width that corresponds to the width necessary for manufacture of the completed felt belt.
US07722742B2 Corrugator belt
The present invention relates generally to fabrics used in papermaking, and relates more specifically to fabrics employed in making corrugated board. The invention also relates to a belt for a corrugated board machine, where the belt includes a coating including an anti-friction modifier which can provide one or more of the following advantages: easy application of the coating to the appropriate area of the fabric, the coating is cost effective, the coating provides for increased belt life on the machine, and increased production quality of corrugated board. The present invention also relates to corrugated board machine including a belt which has a coating containing an anti-friction modifier. The present invention also relates to a method of making a coating for a belt, and a method of applying the coating to a belt where the coating includes an anti-friction modifier.
US07722740B2 Method for obtaining a gaseous phase from a liquid medium and device for carrying out the same
A modular construction micro-reactor with parallel microchannels on fluid guide plates for chemical reactions, but not for evaporation purposes is known. A modular construction falling film evaporator is disclosed, comprising a stack of alternate gap-like evaporation chambers and sheet-like evaporator modules with an assembly of parallel microchannels, whereby the evaporation chambers are open above and/or below across the whole width of the module and the stack is arranged in a container. The falling film evaporator is used in a method for obtaining a gaseous phase from a liquid medium on a technical scale and is suitable for the concentration of thermolabile solutions and rapidly adjustable production of a gas stream.
US07722738B2 Semiconductor device manufacturing unit and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A semiconductor device manufacturing unit is provided, wherein a cathode and an anode can be placed in a simple structure; wherein excellent film deposition and film thickness distribution can be gained; and wherein no cooling devices are required to be provided.A chamber 11 is formed so that the inside thereof can be controlled at a vacuum of an arbitrary degree. Anode supports 6 for supporting an anode 4 are placed at the bottom of the internal structure 8. The anode 4 is made of a material having a high electrical conductivity and a high heat resistance. The temperature of the anode 4 is controlled by a heater 24 so as to be in a range of from room temperature to 600° C. A cathode 2 is placed on a cathode support 5 so as to face the anode 4. The cathode support 5 is attached to an internal structure 8 made of a frame in a rectangular prism form provided within the chamber 11.
US07722735B2 Microstructure applique and method for making same
A method is described for forming a porous coating on the surface of a substrate such as an implantable prosthesis wherein a microstructure appliqué is made in the shape and depth of the area to be coated, adhesively attached to that area and subsequently bonded to the substrate through the application of an appropriate sintering treatment. Manufacture of the microstructure appliqué is accomplished through the transfer and deposition of one or more packed layers of uniformly-sized, metallic particles onto a shaped pattern followed by the addition of a binder solution for preserving the packing of particles and the integrity of the shaped piece. The method disclosed herein provides a means of making uniform and reproducible structures possessing uniform porosity and is adaptable to automation for producing larger quantities of appliqués, which may help in reducing costs associated with prosthetic implant production.
US07722734B2 Method for making disposable pants-type diaper
A sheet piece is folded along a first center line thereof to define a first half and a second half. End edges of these two halves are bonded to each other at their middles. The folded sheet piece is placed upon a crotch region of a basic structure, with the first center line being brought close to a second center line of the basic structure. Lateral edges of the first half are bonded to the crotch region. The basic structure is folded back along the second center line. The inner surface of the basic structure is bonded to the outer surface of the lateral edges of the second half. Regions of the first and second halves defined between the respective lateral edges are spaced from the crotch region. Front and rear waist regions of the basic structure are bonded along the lateral edges to obtain a pants-shape diaper.
US07722732B2 Thick film paste via fill composition for use in LTCC applications
The present invention is directed to the use of a thick film paste composition comprising, in weight percent total paste composition, materials selected from mixtures of lead iron tungstate niobate solid solutions 30 to 80%, calcined mixtures of barium titanate, lead oxide and fused silica 20 to 70%, barium titanate 30 to 50%, calcined mixtures of barium titanate 30 to 50%, barium titanate and calcined mixtures of barium titanate 30 to 50%, lead oxide and fused silica 50-80%, and a lead germanate glass 3-20%, as a thick film paste via fill composition for use in the formation of multilayer low temperature cofired ceramic circuits.
US07722729B2 Method for repairing high temperature articles
A method for repairing an article comprises providing an article, providing a repair material, and joining said repair material to said article. The repair material comprises, in atom percent, at least about 50% rhodium; up to about 49% of a first material, said first material comprising at least one of palladium, platinum, iridium, and combinations thereof; from about 1% to about 15% of a second material, said second material comprising at least one of tungsten, rhenium, and combinations thereof; and up to about 10% of a third material, said third material comprising at least one of ruthenium, chromium, and combinations thereof. The repair material comprises an A1-structured phase at temperatures greater than about 1000° C., in an amount of at least about 90% by volume.
US07722728B2 Heat treatment method and heat treatment apparatus
In a heat treatment method for supplying transforming gas and enriched gas inside a furnace and heat treating a workpiece inside the furnace, feedback control of carbon potential is performed by operating a supply flow rate of the enriched gas based on carbon potential inside the furnace, the feedback control is stopped before an opening of the furnace is opened and supply flow rates of the transforming gas and the enriched gas are increased from supply flow rates thereof immediately before the feedback control is stopped; and the supply flow rate of the transforming gas is returned to the supply flow rate thereof immediately before the feedback control is stopped and the feedback control is resumed after the opening of the furnace is closed.
US07722723B2 Method for supplying clear rinsing agents in a program-controlled dishwasher
A device for checking the concentration of clear rinsing agent in a rinsing liquid circulated in the means for retaining water of a household appliance is provided. The device includes a processing unit operatively connectable to a sensor having at least one transmitting element that emits an optical signal and at least one receiving element that receives the optical signal emitted by the transmitting element. The processing unit determines the wetting of the sensor with clear rinsing liquid and renders an estimate of the concentration of clear rinsing agent in the clear rinsing liquid as a function of the wetting of the sensor with clear rinsing liquid based upon the energy level emitted by the transmitting element and received by the receiving element.
US07722722B2 Continuous fluid bed reactor
The present invention is concerned with an apparatus and method for continuous fluidization which comprises at least two cells connected by an aperture permitting the solid material to be introduced into the next downstream cell by fluidized horizontal flow, an isolated freeboard within each cell, at least two filter sticks contained within the isolated freeboard of each cell, and at least one blow back valve contained within each filter stick. The apparatus allows processing of materials that are typically difficult to fluidize by maintaining a substantially constant pressure difference between each isolated freeboard.
US07722721B2 Separation method
The invention relates to a process of recovering galactose from a solution derived from plant-based biomass. In the process of the invention, the starting solution is subjected to one or more chromatographic fractionation steps, which may carried out with a strongly basic anion exchange resin and optionally with a strongly acid cation exchange resin, in any desired sequence, followed by recovering at least one fraction enriched in galactose. The galactose fraction thus obtained is further purified by crystallization to obtain crystalline galactose. The invention also relates to non-animal derived crystalline D-galactose.
US07722716B2 Non-aqueous dispersions of naphthol as pigments
A non-aqueous pigment dispersion includes a Naphthol AS pigment or a mixed crystal thereof and a Naphthol AS colorant according to Formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are each independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, halogen, methoxy, ethoxy, —CONH-phenyl, and —NO2; wherein the group Q is phenyl substituted by either one sulphonic acid group, two carboxylic acid groups, or salts thereof. Also, non-aqueous inkjet inks and use of the non-aqueous pigment dispersions for making colored layers.
US07722715B2 Pigment compositions for inks with improved rheology
A process for the preparation of pigment compositions which give improved ink flow is provided which comprises treating the pigment, during the pigment synthesis, with a small amount of a long chain aliphatic amine. The pigment compositions obtained can be used for preparing millbase inks which due to their improved flow viscosity (rheology) at high pigmentation can be easily handled as well as flexibly formulated, e.g. a number of final printing inks for different ink applications can be manufactured from a single millbase in a very economical manner. The final inks are preferably used in packaging gravure printing processes.
US07722713B2 Carbon blacks and polymers containing the same
Carbon blacks which are useful in a variety of polymer compounds including ABS compounds are described, as well as methods of making the carbon blacks and polymer compounds. The carbon blacks provide desirable jetness and impact strength, as well as good dispersion in a polymer.
US07722711B2 Image-forming recording liquid and image-forming device
An image-forming recording liquid according to the invention contains magnetic polymer particles and a dispersion medium for dispersing the magnetic polymer particles. The magnetic polymer particles contain a magnetic powder and a polymeric compound. The polymeric compound is a polymer prepared by polymerization of at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of a (meth)acrylate monomer and a styrenic monomer. The dispersion medium contains water, polyvinyl alcohol and an acetylene glycol-based surfactant.
US07722706B2 Device for the extraction of water from atmospheric air
A device is provided for extracting water from atmospheric air (8) having a free-flowing adsorbent or absorbent (3, 13), in particular a saline solution (3), having a hygroscopic salt for the adsorption or absorption of water, the adsorption or absorption being provided at least along an adsorption or absorption section (7), which realizes a high yield of (potable) water per unit volume of the structure or of the absorbent/adsorbent (3), a decrease in the assembly effort and a stabilization of the process. This is achieved according to the invention in having a free-flowing adsorbent (3, 13) or absorbent (3, 13) disposed at least along the adsorption or absorption section (7) essentially on a guide element (1, 16, 19, 22, 24) for guiding the adsorbent (3) or absorbent (3), in particular on a presettable track.
US07722699B2 Adaptable dual-directional, differential pressure assembly
An adaptable dual direction, differential pressure assembly is disclosed. Solenoid valves release controlled bursts of air into a top of a container. A rate of the controlled bursts of air is partially responsive to a pressure differential between atmospheric pressure and that of compressed air in the reservoir. A pleated filter is fitted inside of the container. The pleated filter has an inner wall and an outer wall and has pleatings separated using hot melt glue beads there between. The controlled bursts of air are programmed to be substantially automatically responsive to one or more pressure differentials between an inner wall and an outer wall. In one embodiment, air is drawn from the blower through the pleated filter from the inner wall to the outer wall until a desired pressure differential is achieved. In yet another embodiment, air is drawn through the pleated filter from the outer wall into the inner wall and to draw upwardly out of the top of the container through the blower until a first pressure differential is achieved.
US07722696B2 Coated granular substances
The invention relates to a coated granular material, wherein the coating is a resin, comprising the reaction producing of at least one compound selected from the group consisting of cardol, cardanol or derivatives or oligomers of these compounds with an isocyanate component, and to a method for the preparation thereof. Water-soluble granular materials are suitable as substances to be coated. Examples of granular substances are fertilizers, crop protection agents, insecticides, pesticides, fungicides, drying agents and mixtures thereof. The substance coated according to the invention has advantageous properties since the resin can be applied in a selective and economical manner to the substrates due to its low tackiness. In particular, coated fertilizer granulates are advantageous in that, with regard to the applied amount of fertilizer, they can provide more nutrients to the plant. In addition, fertilizers can be provided that can provide nutrients to the plant over a longer period of time and continuously and they have an exact and reproducible release behavior according to the type of plant to be treated. Furthermore, the polyol component of the coating can be obtained from the renewable raw material cashew nut oil.
US07722694B2 Filter system for an air cleaner
A filter system for an air cleaner is provided according to an embodiment of the invention. The filter system includes a filter frame adapted to fit within the air cleaner and a filter assembly configured to fit to the frame. The filter assembly includes a top aperture and one or more filter panels. A filter panel of the one or more filter panels includes one or more panel edges and one or more interlocking tabs formed on the one or more panel edges.
US07722690B2 Methods for producing synthesis gas
A process for producing electrical power, chemicals, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen is provided. One or more feedstocks and one or more oxidants can be combined in a fluidized reaction zone heated to a temperature from about 1050° F. to about 1900° F. to provide a synthesis gas comprising carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and hydrogen. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the synthesis gas can be used as a fuel source for one or more turbines to drive one or more electrical generators. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the synthesis gas can be introduced to one or more gas converters to provide methanol, alkyl formates, dimethyl ether, ammonia, Fischer-Tropsch products, derivatives thereof or combinations thereof.
US07722687B2 Methods for the deposition of electrocatalyst particles
Energy devices such as batteries and methods for fabricating the energy devices. The devices are small, thin and lightweight, yet provide sufficient power for many handheld electronics.
US07722686B2 Composite electrode and method for fabricating same
Composite electrodes are constructed with pressure-bonding techniques instead of an adhesive. A current collector is made from aluminum foil roughed on both surfaces. The surfaces of the collector can be treated to enhance adhesion to the surfaces. Layers of film that includes active electrode material, such as activated carbon, are fabricated and pressure-bonded to the current collector using a calender with heated rollers. The resulting composite sheet is then processed to shape electrodes, which can be used in electrical energy storage devices, including double layer capacitors.
US07722685B2 Process and device for producing a fuel cell stack while applying a controlled force to the assembled stack
A method for the production of a fuel cell stack, involving the following steps: a) piling up the fuel cell stack (1) and (b) putting together the fuel cell stack (1) while heating and compressing the piled fuel cell stack (1). At least one regulated force is applied to the piled fuel cell stack (1) during the compression thereof.
US07722683B2 Method and apparatus for a capacitor shell including two mateable cupped components
One embodiment of the present subject matter includes a capacitor, comprising a first cupped shell having a first opening, and a second cupped shell having a second opening, wherein the first opening and the second opening are adapted to sealably mate to form a closed shell defining a volume therein. In the embodiment, the closed shell is adapted for retaining electrolyte. A plurality of capacitor layers in a substantially flat arrangement are disposed within the volume, along with electrolyte, in the present embodiment. The present closed shell includes one or more ports for electrical connections.
US07722682B2 Composition for the oxidation dyeing of keratin fibers, comprising at least one fatty alcohol, at least one oxidation dye, at least one associative polymer, and at least one compound chosen from fatty acid esters and metal oxides
Disclosed herein is a composition for the oxidation dyeing of keratin fibers, for example human keratin fibers, such as the hair, comprising, in a medium suitable for dyeing, a) at least one oxidation dye; b) at least one fatty alcohol; c) at least one associative polymer; and d) at least one compound chosen from fatty acid esters and metal oxides.
US07722678B2 Intramedullary compliant fixation
An intramedullary fixation device and associated method. The intramedullary fixation device includes a first intramedullary component having a first bone-attachment end and a first elongated member, a second intramedullary component having a second bone-attachment end and a second elongated member, and a compliant member coupling the first and second intramedullary components for applying bone-compressing stress. The second intramedullary component defines a sleeve such that the first elongated member can pass therethrough.
US07722671B1 Medical devices with associated growth factors
A polypeptide growth factor is associated with a substrate to promote population of the substrate with endothelial cells. In a preferred approach, the growth factor is associated with the substrate by crosslinking under suitably mild conditions such that the growth factor is active following the crosslinking process. Thus, a prosthesis is formed with growth factor crosslinked to the substrate.
US07722669B2 Method and insert for modifying eye color
A method and intrastroma insert are adapted to modify eye color. The insertion of opaque material into the stromal space is a means of changing the color and/or design of the stroma and, apparently, the iris. Biocompatible inserts include a slurry of biocompatible material, a fabric including opacified material, and a thin, permeable film material incorporating some opaque materials that may also alter the shape of the cornea to improve aberrational shape and may cover the pupil to block ultraviolet radiation and provide sun protection with polarizing effect.
US07722666B2 Valve apparatus, system and method
A cardiac valve with a first anchor frame and a cover on the first anchor frame for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve.
US07722662B2 Expandable stent with sliding and locking radial elements
The present invention provides a lumen support stent with a clear through-lumen for use in a body lumen. The stent is formed from at least one series of sliding and locking radial elements and at least one ratcheting mechanism comprising an articulating element and a plurality of stops. The ratcheting mechanism permits one-way sliding of the radial elements from a collapsed diameter to an expanded diameter, but inhibits radial recoil from the expanded diameter.
US07722660B2 Segmented spine
A stent comprises a plurality of serpentine bands. Each serpentine band has alternating peak regions and trough regions and extends about substantially the entire circumference of the stent. At least one of the serpentine bands has a spline extending therefrom toward a serpentine band adjacent thereto. Serpentine bands which are adjacent one another are connected one to the other.
US07722659B2 Endoluminal prosthesis
An endoluminal prosthesis, comprising a tubular body, said tubular body developing along a longitudinal axis, said tubular body comprising a plurality of serpentines, which develop along a substantially circumferential direction, each of said serpentines comprising arm portions of a preset width transversal to their main longitudinal extension, and bend portions joining two subsequent arms, at least one bridge, having a main longitudinal extension, connecting two adjacent serpentines, wherein the bends facing an adjacent serpentine are circumferentially staggered relative to the opposite bends of the adjoining serpentine, both when the prosthesis is collapsed and when the prosthesis is expanded or partially expanded, wherein the at least one bridge connecting adjacent serpentines extends substantially straight, and wherein the at least one bridge has a width transversal to its main longitudinal direction of a greater value than the arm width.
US07722657B2 Asymmetric stent graft attachment
An arrangement for mounting a stent graft prosthesis (1) onto a deployment device (2) with a retention arrangement (3) which includes retention at a number of points of the circumference of the proximal end of the stent graft prosthesis (1). The arrangement provides a greater circumferential distance (13) between two adjacent retention points (9) then other of the points. When the deployment device is deployed in a curved lumen such as the thoracic arch it is oriented so that the greater circumferential distance (13) is on the inner side of the curve.
US07722655B2 Alopecia healing apparatus using laser and LED
Disclosed is an alopecia healing apparatus. The alopecia healing apparatus has a case provided at a first end thereof with a handle section, and a second end thereof with a massage section having a plurality of massage protrusions, a light radiating section including a plurality of LEDs, which arc regularly aligned behind the massage protrusions of the case in equidistance, a laser radiating section aligned in the case corresponding to the massage section so as to radiate low-level laser beam, a vibration device installed in the case so as to vibrate the case, a control section including a microcomputer for controlling operations of the light radiating section, the laser radiating section and the vibration device, and a power source for supplying power to the light radiating section and the laser radiating section. The alopecia healing apparatus radiates low-level laser beam and optical pulses of the LEDs onto the scalp, so that the hair-root cells are activated, thereby promoting hair growth. Due to optical pulse of the LEDs and the vibration massage of the vibration device, the scalp is stimulated, so laser beam and drugs are effectively absorbed into the scalp.
US07722654B2 Spinal implants with multi-axial anchor assembly and methods
System and methods are provided that include a plate member engageable to the spinal column with an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a coupling member having a post extending through at least one opening of the plate member and an anchor member pivotally captured in a receiver member of the coupling member below a lower surface of the plate member. A locking member secures the plate member to the coupling member.
US07722648B2 Crosslink interconnection of bone attachment devices
An apparatus comprises a pair of bone attachment devices and a crosslink device for a spinal fixation system or other implant arrangement. The bone attachment devices include a head with socket to receive a spinal rod or other elongate element and the crosslink device includes a pair of bridging members each having an end section for connecting with the bone attachment devices. An interconnection device situated between the bridging members receives the bridging members and allows translational and rotational freedom therebetween while being operable to secure the bridging members in position relative to one another. A pair of engaging members are structured to engage the head of the respective bone attachment device and bear against the respective adjacent end of crosslink device to lock the crosslink and the bone attachment device in a rigid construct are also included.
US07722646B2 Polyaxial pedicle screw having a rotating locking element
A screw and coupling element assembly for use with an orthopedic rod implantation apparatus includes a screw with a head and a shaft extending from the head, a coupling element with a seat within which the head is seatable such that the shaft protrudes from the coupling element, and a locking element mateable with the coupling element and when mated is selectively movable through a plurality of positions including unlocked and locked positions. When in the unlocked position, the locking element presents a rod-receiving channel and the head is movable in the seat such that the shaft is directable in a plurality of angles relative to the coupling element. When in the locked position, a rod disposed within the rod-receiving channel is fixed relative to the coupling element and the head is immovable in the seat such that the shaft is fixed at an angle relative to the coupling element.
US07722642B2 Extremely long wire fasteners for use in minimally invasive surgery and means and methods for handling those fasteners
Wire fasteners having legs with lengths that can be one hundred times the width of the fastener are used to secure items, such as prosthesis valves to a patient during minimally invasive surgery. The fasteners are manipulated into position and then are immobilized by means of the legs thereof for tensioning, cutting and forming in situ. The fasteners are manipulated, tensioned and formed from the leg end of the fasteners. Tools for initially placing the fasteners and for immobilizing, tensioning, cutting and bending the fastener legs are disclosed. Once the fasteners are initially placed, the prosthesis is placed on the long legs of the placed fasteners and is guided into position on the legs. Once the prosthesis is in position, the legs of the fasteners are immobilized, tensioned, cut and bent into staple-like shapes to secure the prosthesis to the patient. A method for carrying out the procedure using the long fastener is also disclosed. Using the teaching of the present disclosure, a surgeon can customize a fastener to the particular surgery or even to the particular portion of surgery being performed during the surgery.
US07722639B2 Surgical retraction device for removal of small organs
A surgical device and tool for use in stabilizing tissue, such as an organ relative to a clamp, the surgical device having an elongate rigid member with a proximal end of the device having a stabilizing structure that rests against the skin of the subject and includes a vessel guide for guiding a blood vessel attached to the organ or tissue, and a tapered distal end that mounts on the clamp. The surgical tool includes the combination of a clamp and the above-mentioned surgical device, with the clamp having a hinge pin with tapered socket that receives mounted the distal end of the device and a flap positioned on the proximal end. The tool is used to stabilize an organ by placement of the stabilizing structure against the skin of the subject, guiding a blood vessel with the vessel hook, using the flap to hold tissue away from the organ, and clamping such vessel distal to the vessel guide. A ligature is then placed across the vessel between the vessel guide and the clamp.
US07722636B2 Embolic device delivery system with torque fracture characteristic
A vascular occlusion device deployment system can deploy an occlusion device at a preselected site within the vasculature of a patient. The deployment system includes a pusher which employs an elongated member that releases an embolic device when a breakpoint of the elongated member is fractured by applying torque to the breakpoint such as by rotating the elongated member.
US07722627B2 Surgical ligation instrument
A surgical instrument for ligating internal tissue of a cavity in the human body by means of an elastic cord is disclosed. The instrument comprises an inner tube, having a distal and a proximal part, with the distal part having a distal end adapted to carry an elastic cord strained around it and with the proximal part arranged to be connected to a vacuum source, wherein at least one tube bend is formed between the distal and proximal part. Further, an outer discharge member is provided to push said elastic cord beyond the distal end of said tube to close around the stem of a tissue when inserted in the tube, the discharge member comprising an outer discharge part displaceably arranged around the distal part, an actuating part displaceably arranged around the proximal part, and a flexible connection part following said tube bend and arranged to transfer a movement of the actuating part to the discharge part.
US07722626B2 Method of manipulating matter in a mammalian body
The invention provides a method of using an apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising providing an apparatus having manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate shape memory alloy members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing or cannula capable of holding at least the shape memory alloy member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the shape memory alloy member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the space and for withdrawing the shape memory alloy member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the shape-memory alloy member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the temperature.
US07722623B2 Instruments and methods for delivering multiple implants
Instruments and methods are provided for delivering multiple implants to multiple implant locations in a patient without requiring a second implant to be loaded onto or engaged to the delivery instrument after delivery of a first implant. The implants can be sequentially engaged using the delivery instrument to the patient or to receptacles of one or more receiving members secured to the patient.
US07722618B2 Method and instrumentation for posterior interbody fusion
A method and instrumentation for spinal interbody fusion is disclosed. The instruments and methods are particularly adapted for interbody fusion from a posterior approach to the spine. One instrument is a retractor having a lockable pivotally mounted handle. Another instrument is a template for straddling the dura. A modular distractor is also provided and preferably includes a tapered shaft with a visualization window disposed therein. Yet another instrument is a depth gauge to verify bone opening depth and dimension, preferably including a radiopaque portion. A method contemplates the use of these instruments to prepare a disc space to receive an implant.
US07722610B2 Multiple coil staple and staple applier
A multiple coil staple is provided which includes a backspan and a pair of spaced legs. The backspan includes one or more pockets configured to induce coiling of the legs of the staple. A multiple coil staple applier is also provided which includes a pusher having a distal face defining a staple engagement surface and one or more staple deforming pockets. Each staple deforming pocket is configured to induce coiling of the legs of a staple. The multiple coil staple and staple applier facilitate joining of tissues having wider ranges of thicknesses using a single size staple.
US07722609B2 Outrigger with locking mechanism
An outrigger having a locking mechanism includes an elongated member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a threaded portion proximate the distal end; a moveable member operably associated with the elongated member; and a slide lock operably associated with the moveable member. The thread portion may have at least one flat side and the slide lock may have at least one flat portion. The at least one flat side and the at least one flat portion may engage such that the slide lock translates along, but not rotate about, the threaded portion. The slide lock may engage a surface of the clamp. The moveable member may move the slide lock towards the clamp such that the engagement portion engages the surface of the clamp. The connection between the engagement portion and the surface of the clamp may prevent the slide lock from rotating relative to the clamp.
US07722608B2 Allograft implant workstation
A portable surgical workstation for implant formation comprising a base with a central planar section. The central planar section has a plurality of tracks and a throughgoing slot with a recessed stepped surrounding surface formed on a bottom surface of the central planar section. A vise assembly mounted to the base comprises a fixed jaw member secured to the base, a traveling jaw member moveably mounted to the base and a fixed drive housing mounted to the base. The traveling jaw member has a plurality of rail members adapted to be slidably mounted in the central planar section tracks. The fixed drive housing has a threaded longitudinal bore which receives a threaded drive shaft, one end of the drive shaft being secured in the traveling jaw member to transport the traveling jaw members.
US07722606B2 Device and method for destruction of cancer cells
The present invention provides devices and systems, as well as methods, of electric field delivery and non-thermal or selective ablation of target tissue regions, including selective ablation of cancerous cells and solid tumors. A method of the present invention includes delivering an electric field to a tissue, including positioning an electrode within a target tissue region comprising cancerous cells, and applying an alternating electrical current to the target tissue so as to non-thermally ablate cancerous cells of the target tissue region around the electrodes.
US07722603B2 Smart return electrode pad
An electrosurgical return electrode is disclosed. The return electrode includes a return electrode pad having a patient-contacting surface configured to conduct electrosurgical energy and a sensor circuit coupled to the return electrode pad. The sensor circuit is configured to monitor at least one of a return electrode pad property and a tissue property to generate sensor data. The return electrode also includes a control circuit coupled to the return electrode pad and to the sensor circuit. The control circuits configured to receive and process sensor data from the sensor circuit and relay the processed sensor data to an electrosurgical energy source.
US07722602B2 Electrosurgical device
An electrosurgical device is provided which can prevent the decrease of the effect of a treatment performed by an operator or the like on a biological tissue. A high-frequency voltage generated in an alternating power supply is transformed in a transformer. A high-frequency current in accordance with the transformed high-frequency voltage is supplied to the biological tissue via two high-frequency current supply lines. In this case, the impedance between the two high-frequency current supply lines is set in an impedance matching circuit so as to become maximum with respect to the frequency of the high-frequency current. Accordingly, the decrease of the effect of the treatment performed on the biological tissue can be prevented.
US07722601B2 Method and system for programming and controlling an electrosurgical generator system
A method and system are disclosed enabling configuration of a control system for an electrosurgical generator system for creating new surgical applications without changing the underlying software system. The system includes an outer loop controller for generating a control signal in accordance with at least a first subset of sensor data from at least one sensor; an inner loop controller for generating a setpoint control signal which is provided to an RF stage in accordance with at least the control signal generated by the outer loop controller and a second subset of sensor data from the at least one sensor; and a configuration controller for generating configuration data and providing first and second configuration data sets of the configuration data to the inner loop and outer loop controllers, respectively, for configuration thereof to provide a type of control selectable from a variety of types of control.
US07722599B2 In vivo accessories for minimally invasive robotic surgery
Surgical accessories are presented in vivo and used by surgical tools in the surgical site to perform additional tasks without the need to remove the tools from the surgical site for tool change or instrument loading. Examples of in vivo accessories include fastening accessories such as surgical clips for use with a clip applier, single working member accessories such as a blade which can be grasped and manipulated by a grasping tool for cutting, sheath accessories that fit over working members of a tool, flow tubes for providing suction or introducing a fluid into the surgical site, and a retraction member resiliently biased to retract a tissue to expose an area in the surgical site for treatment. The accessories can be introduced into the surgical site by a dedicated accessory introducer, or can be supported on the body of a surgical tool inserted into the surgical site and be manipulated using another surgical tool in the surgical site. The accessory introducer can be resiliently biased to bias the accessories toward a predetermined position in the surgical site.
US07722598B2 Apparatus and system for delivery of drug therapies
A medical delivery system for delivering a fluid to a desired location within a body that includes a first member having an aperture, and a second member adapted to be positioned over the first member. The fluid to be delivered is contained within a fluid storage device, formed by at least one of the first member and the second member. The medical delivery system includes means for repositioning the first member relative to the second member between a first state preventing passage of the fluid through the aperture and a second state enabling passage of the fluid outward from the fluid storage device through the aperture.
US07722594B1 Infusion bag with integrated rinsing system
The invention relates to a medical bag which is intended for the infusion of a medicament by means of gravity. The inventive bag comprises: at least two compartments, namely a first compartment (1) containing a medicament in the form of a solution and a second compartment (2) containing a rinsing solution; and means for separating/communicating the compartments, which prevent the rinsing solution from automatically entering the medicament compartment except at the end of the infusion period. The rinsing solution ends the infusion, by rinsing the medicament bag and the infusion line, such as to prevent any risk of contamination or leakage of residual medicament from the bag or line.
US07722591B2 Hygiene pants for single use
Disposable hygiene pants with a front portion (2), a rear portion (3) and a crotch portion (4) provided with two leg openings (5, 6), the longitudinal edge portions (21, 22) of the front portion being connected by longitudinal weld seams (7, 8) to the longitudinal edge portions (31, 32) of the rear portion (3) in order to form a waist opening (9) and the two leg openings (5, 6) in the crotch portion, which leg openings are outwardly delimited in the transverse direction by the inner end portions of the weld seams as seen in the longitudinal direction of the hygiene pants. The hygiene pants have an outer elastic cover (10) and have an absorption unit (11). The cover is made of an elastic laminate having an elastic film applied between two nonwoven layers. The weld seams (7, 8) are each reinforced by at least one nonwoven strip (15, 16) containing thermoplastic fibers and have a tensile strength, in a direction transverse to the weld seam, in excess of 5 N/25.4 mm at least in the portions reinforced with said nonwoven strip (15, 16).
US07722588B1 Multilayered apertured film wrapping element for absorbent articles
A multilayered apertured film wrapping element for an absorbent article is disclosed. At least one outer layer of the fluid-impervious plastic material has a continuous phase of a thermoplastic polymeric component and an immiscible, dispersed phase of a thermoplastic polymeric component having a lower melting point. The wrapping element is useful in applications involving heat sealing and similar thermal processes in absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, diapers, bandages, tampons, and the like.
US07722585B2 Pouch for collecting human waste
A drainable ostomy pouch has an outlet. Reinforcing members at the outlet are deformable by application of manual pressure at their ends to distend the outlet. The lateral edges of the reinforcing members may be offset, which encourages the reinforcing members to consistently bend away from each other. A peelable distributed mechanical engagement fastener secures the outlet in a folded condition. The fastener parts are hook-hook type plastic extrusions, and provide a snap-engagement. A security flap is foldable under the outlet when in its folded condition. The outlet is released in two stages.
US07722580B2 Percutaneous access port
A percutaneous port comprises a port body defining a cavity and a first catheter channel adapted to allow passage of a catheter thereinto a shuttle removably received within the cavity, the shuttle including a first flow conduit which, when the shuttle is received within the cavity, extends to the first catheter channel and a sealing mechanism sealing the first flow conduit when a fluid pressure applied thereto is less than a threshold value and opening to permit flow therethrough when the fluid pressure applied thereto is at least the threshold value a cover releasably attachable to the port body to enclose the cavity.
US07722579B2 Devices for injecting a curable biomaterial into a intervertebral space
A vented needle assembly is provided for sealably injecting biomaterial into an intradiscal space interiorly of the annulus of a spinal disc and for providing an exhaust for the intradiscal space. The vented needle assembly comprises a compressible seal body for pressing against an outer surface of the annulus, and a needle extending through the seal. The needle may be configured to connect to a syringe for pressure injection of the biomaterial. The seal includes a vent extending therethrough with an opening for communication with the intradiscal space and an opening for the discharge of excess biomaterial filling the intradiscal space. A kit of parts is also provided for use in the treatment of a spinal disc, the kit comprising the vented needle assembly and an inflatable trial device. The trial device is removably introduced into the intradiscal space and inflated to determine the available size of the intradiscal space.
US07722578B2 Medical devices
Medical devices and related methods are disclosed.
US07722575B2 Medical valve and method of use
A closed system, needleless valve device includes a generally tubular body defining an internal cavity. On the proximal end of the body there is an opening which is preferably sufficiently large to receive an ANSI standard tip of a medical implement. The distal end of the body has a generally tubular skirt. The valve also includes a hollow spike having a closed tip. The spike includes at least one longitudinal 18-gauge hole located distal the tip, and is seated inside the cavity such that the tip is below the proximal end of the body. An annular support cuff is connected to the spike which seals off a portion of the cavity of the body such that an upper cavity containing the tip is defined. The valve also includes a plastic, resilient silicone seal which fills the upper cavity and opening and covers the tip of the spike so as to present a flush surface. An adaptor enables the valve to be attached to a resealable container.
US07722574B2 Infusion assembly that simultaneously delivers therapeutic fluid to plural body sites
An infusion assembly for delivering therapeutic fluid to plural body sites is provided. The assembly includes a positive displacement pump that discharges the therapeutic fluid. The assembly also includes a flow regulator valve including a valve housing that defines a pressure chamber, an inlet bore that opens into the pressure chamber, and first and second outlet passageways. The first and second outlet passageways extend, respectively, from separate first and second outlet openings to a first catheter and a second catheter through which the therapeutic fluid is directed to the body sites. A controller cyclically regulates the operation of the pump so that, in a first phase of each cycle, the pump is actuated so as to cause a fluid pulse to be presented through the inlet bore of the valve housing to the diaphragm and in a second phase of each cycle, the pump is not actuated.
US07722567B2 Access device
A device may include a hollow needle, a dilator mounted coaxially on the needle, and a sheath mounted coaxially on the dilator. The dilator may be slideably displaceable relative to the sheath.
US07722563B2 Vascular access device stagnant fluid displacement
A medical device may include an extravascular system, a vascular access device attached to the system, and at least one access port attached to the device capable of displacing stagnant fluid within the extravascular system. A method for eliminating stagnant fluid within an extravascular system may include providing an extravascular system, providing a vascular access device having an access port, attaching the device to the system via the access port, accessing the access port with a separate vascular access device, and displacing stagnant fluid within the extravascular system.
US07722562B2 Pump set with safety interlock
A pump set for use with a pump to deliver a supply of liquid to a patient. The feeding set has a conduit for the nutrient liquid and a safety interlock device associated with the conduit. The pumping apparatus has a pumping device and a control system for controlling operation of the pump. An electromagnetic radiation source is operatively connected to the control system of the pump for emitting an electromagnetic radiation signal in a direction for striking the safety interlock device of the feeding set. The safety interlock device is adapted to affect the direction of the electromagnetic radiation. An electromagnetic radiation detector is operatively connected to the control system for receiving the electromagnetic radiation signal when the direction is affected by the safety interlock device, and providing an indication to the control system that the feeding set conduit is properly positioned in the feeding pump.
US07722558B2 Trocar sleeve for jet stream condition
A trocar sleeve that isolates the surgical device or movement thereof to inhibit or prevent an established non-jet streaming condition from becoming a jet streaming condition and a method of inhibiting or preventing a jet streaming condition from occurring due to instrument obstruction.
US07722556B2 Ankle foot orthosis and method therefor
An ankle foot orthosis that provides a patient with forward flexing, energy loading, and balance control. The orthosis may also be adjustable for size and fit. The orthosis couples opposing stabilization forces that help to provide optimal balance control.
US07722553B2 Massage apparatus
A massage apparatus is provided which includes a housing, a motor disposed within the housing, and at least one massage center provided on the housing. The massage center includes an outer massage member and an inner massage member, where the outer massage member at least partially circumferentially surrounds the inner massage member. The outer and inner massage members are operably connected to the motor for providing rotation of the massage members.
US07722547B2 Die swell fertility assessment for humans and other mammals: apparatus and method
A method and apparatus for assessing fertility in mammalian females comprising sampling cervical-vaginal fluid, measuring one or more of the sample's viscoelastic properties, and evaluating the measurement to determine fertility. Preferable embodiments of the current invention may utilize measurement of the viscoelastic property of die swell ratio, or other viscoelastic properties of cervical-vaginal fluid.
US07722540B2 Ultrasonic image processing apparatus, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and ultrasonic image processing program
When a two-dimensional tomogram is to be displayed, motion information associated with a direction orthogonal to the tomogram is colored and mapped on the tomogram to be visualized by using the volume data of a TSI image. For example, a mapping image is generated by color-mapping shortening information at each point on a cardiac tissue on a short axis view by using the volume data of the TSI image. Superimposing and displaying the mapping image on the original short axis view makes it possible to simultaneously observe the shortening information even while a short axis view is obtained and observed.
US07722537B2 Method and apparatus for detection of multiple analytes
An apparatus for analyzing the composition of bodily fluid. The apparatus comprises a fluid handling network including a patient end configured to maintain fluid communication with a bodily fluid in a patient and at least one pump intermittently operable to draw a sample of bodily fluid from the patient. The apparatus further comprises a fluid analyzer positioned to analyze at least a portion of the sample and measure the presence of two or more analytes. Also disclosed is a method for analyzing the composition of a bodily fluid in a patient. The method comprises drawing a sample of the bodily fluid of the patient through a fluid handling network configured to maintain fluid communication with a bodily fluid in a patient. The method further comprises analyzing the at least a portion of the sample in a fluid analyzer to estimate the concentration of two or more analytes in the sample.
US07722536B2 Glucose measuring device integrated into a holster for a personal area network device
A glucose meter module integrated into a holster device that can securely accommodate another device such as a portable server device or an insulin pump is described. The glucose measuring module and the health device communicate with each other by a short range wireless modality. In the case in which the accommodated device is a server, such as personal digital assistant or cell phone, the device stores data in a memory, displays data on a visual display, and can wirelessly transmit such data to other devices within a personal area network. In the case where the accommodated device is a cell phone, the phone can further transmit data to remote sites. In the case where the accommodated device is an insulin pump, wirelessly received data are stored in a memory, are available for visual display on the insulin pump, and can be incorporated into the electronic processes that regulate the performance of the pump.
US07722535B2 Apparatus and method for assisting in choosing a site for a skin invasive action
Apparatus and method for assisting in choosing a suitable site for a skin invasive action, such as drug injection, e.g. insulin for persons with diabetes, or collecting blood or tissue samples. Measures and processes parameters relating to a specific area part of the skin or subcutis and determines whether the area part is suitable for the skin invasive action based on the processed parameters. Suitable for assisting a person in choosing a site during an injection/sampling procedure, ensuring that skin invasive actions are performed at suitable sites only. Very useful for repetitive skin invasive actions, such as BG measurements and insulin injections. Helps in varying sites for the skin invasive action without the need for keeping a record of used sites manually. Helps in avoiding tissue infiltrations and lipodystrophy.
US07722532B2 Electric bending endoscope
An electric bending endoscope comprises a bending portion arranged to an inserting portion, a bending driving unit and a buffering member. The bending driving unit bends the bending portion, and includes a motor, a first unit and a second unit. The motor generates driving force for bending the bending portion. The first unit holds the motor. The second unit includes a driving force transmitting member. The buffering member connects the first unit to an outer member of the inserting portion, a connecting code and a switch. The buffering member absorbs external force generated during the operation of the electric bending endoscope.
US07722529B2 Expandable vessel harness for treating vessel aneurysms
A harness for treating vessel aneurysms is disclosed. The harness applies elastic, compressive reinforcement on the aneurysm to reduce deleterious wall tension and to resist the shape change of the vessel. Rather than imposing a dimension beyond which the aneurysm cannot expand, the harness provides no hard limit over the range of systolic expansion of the vessel. Instead, the harness follows the contour of the vessel throughout systole and continuously exerts gentle resistance to stretch. Also disclosed is a method of delivering the vessel harness to the vessel with minimal invasion.
US07722520B2 Asbestos containment composition
The compound is a clay aqueous suspension made of at least one 2:1 layer phyllosilicate clay mineral, at least one 1:1 layer phyllosilicate clay mineral, and water that can be used to sequester asbestos, such as chrysotile, as well as dust and other fibrous particles, at all scales of contamination.
US07722517B2 Plastic bag sealing device
A plastic bag sealing device includes a work table, a sealing device having a silicon rubber roller, a material intake press roller and a material outlet press roller fixed beside the silicon rubber roller to press thereon, plural rotating shafts fixed outside around the silicon rubber roller and respectively mounted with a sealing blade, plural guide rollers employed to conduct plastic bags, a dot-cutting device, an opening-cutting device, and a press roller fixed beside the dot-cutting device and the opening-cutting device. With the sealing blades to carry out multiple sealing at the same location, a plastic bag can be quickly and firmly sealed, and with the dot-cutting device and the opening-cutting device installed on the work table to respectively execute dot-cutting and opening-cutting, the work table can be comparatively downsized, thus greatly elevating economic gain.
US07722515B2 Rack and module change system
A module storage rack is disclosed e.g. a probe rack suitable for use with a carrier e.g. a probe measurement head which is movable relative to the rack for picking a module from the rack. The rack includes a base member and a plurality of storage ports connected to the base for storing the modules, each port has an actuatable connecting or disconnecting tool for connecting or disconnecting a module to or from the carrier, and each storage port is movable relative to the base member the relative movement provides the actuation of the tool. The plurality of storage ports are movable together relative to the base. Additionally, there is disclosed a linkage having a plurality of pivotally interconnected rigid members being connected to the tool for causing the tool to connect or disconnect the module to or from the carrier. The linkage may be operated by movement of the rack or by alternative mechanisms.
US07722514B2 Multi-directional body swing, turn and twist trainer with interchangeable and adjustable attachments
An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training to the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues enjoining all the muscles in these areas. The exercise apparatus comprises a main frame, a foot platform (preferably two) and means for attaching the foot platforms to the main frame. The exercise apparatus is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures. The apparatus has multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories for allowing several types of exercises.
US07722512B2 Prone exerciser
A prone exerciser includes a slide unit disposed with at least a rail, a buffering and locating member, a handle, and a pedal. The buffering and locating member is fixed on front end of the rail for providing buffering and locating effects to the handle. The handle is arranged on the rail, between the buffering and locating member and the pedal, and is sliding forwards and backwards. The pedal is disposed on rear end of the rail and is sliding forwards and backwards along the rail. By adjusting position of the buffering and locating member on front end of the rail, the distance of the handle and the pedal sliding on the rail is determined. Users are prone and operate the handle as well as pedal for sliding forwards and backwards on the rail so as to stretch and contract upper part or lower part of the body respectively or simultaneously. Moreover, the exerciser further includes an elastic rope with one end set on front end of the slide unit while the other end thereof is inserted through rear end of the slide unit and then set on the handle or the pedal so as to increase resistance of the handle or the pedal while sliding forwards and backwards on the rail. Thus users can stretch or contract upper part or lower part of bodies with different strength depending on their needs.
US07722510B2 Two-section physical-exercise elastic cudgel
A two-section physical-exercise elastic cudgel comprises a first carbon-fiber rod and a second carbon-fiber rod. The first carbon-fiber rod has a rod body, a first joint end with a first handle structure, and a first balance-weight end with a balance weight. The first handle structure has a handlebar, a male connection block, a supporter and a sleeve ring. The second carbon-fiber rod has a rod body, a second joint end with a second handle structure, and a second balance-weight end with a balance weight. The second handle structure has a handlebar, a female connection block, a supporter and a sleeve ring. The first handle structure is connected with the second handle structure via engagement of the male connection block and the female connection block to form a complete handle, whereby the first carbon-fiber rod and the second carbon-fiber rod form an easy-to-assemble, easy-to-disassemble, easy-to-carry and easy-to-collect two-section physical-exercise elastic cudgel.
US07722508B2 combination grip for an exercise device
An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a combination of grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. One exercise device described is an inelastic resistance device having a combination grip that includes hand grips and a loop. The hand grip and loop may be used as a foot grip, or alternatively, just the hand grip can be used by the hand. The selection of a specific accessory grip allows the user to exercise by specific body parts and provides for a greater number of possible exercises.
US07722507B2 Inclination controlling device of treadmill
The present invention provides a inclination controlling device of treadmill comprising a belt support frame, a first link member pivotally connected to the belt support frame, a second link member pivotally connected to the belt support frame, and a base frame pivotally connected to both the first link member and the second link member respectively thereby controlling an inclination angle of the belt support frame with wider range.
US07722504B2 Method for measuring physical fitness and creating athletic training regimens for particular sports
Disclosed is a method for creating a fitness training program based on performing neuromuscular and muscular performance tests on an individual, analyzing the results of the neuromuscular and muscular performance tests, and creating the fitness training program based on the analysis of the neuromuscular and muscular performance test results. The equipment used to perform the neuromuscular and muscular performance tests may be equipment designed for rehabilitation physical therapy used for recovery from injuries and surgical procedures that permits general neuromuscular and muscular performance testing and testing of the difference in muscle performance between a right side and a left side of the body of the individual. The individual is tested to create a fitness training program to increase neuromuscular and muscular performance, not for purposes of injury and/or surgery rehabilitation. The individual tested may be a healthy individual. The method is particularly well suited for an athlete that desires to increase performance in a particular sport. The test equipment should objectively, quantitatively, and accurately measure the general neuromuscular and muscular performance and the difference in muscle performance between the right side and left side of the body. Neuromuscular and muscular performance tests may include a variety of exercise movements with each movement tested for isometric, coordination, proprioceptive, endurance capacity, and strength capacity response. The fitness training regimen is created for the individual based on the analysis of the neuromuscular and muscular performance test results.
US07722503B1 System and method for automating an exercise routine
In accordance with a preferred embodiment, there is provided a system and method for assisting a user complete an exercise program. According to a first aspect, there is provided a system that allows a coach to design an exercise program for an individual client and have that program written to portable non-volatile media that is provided to the client. The client then moves from machine to machine during his or her workout program, in each case first inserting the memory card into the selected machine before starting to exercise. The selected machine, if it is one that has been specified in the client's exercise program, will automatically set its performance parameters to match those on the memory card after which the client will be able to immediately start exercising. Optionally, actual performance data from the user's workout will be written back to the memory card for subsequent printing and/or analysis.
US07722499B2 Launch control of a hybrid electric vehicle
A method for controlling a vehicle launch using a transmission having an input, a current gear, an input clutch associated with a target gear and an output, an engine and an electric machine for driving the input, includes the steps of using the engine and the first electric machine to drive the transmission input at a desired magnitude of torque, determining a desired magnitude of torque capacity of the input clutch, determining a crankshaft speed error, determining a magnitude of a change in torque capacity of the input clutch that will reduce the crankshaft speed error, and increasing the torque capacity of the input clutch to a desired torque capacity whose magnitude is determined by adding the current magnitude of torque capacity of the input clutch and said change in torque capacity of the input clutch.
US07722495B1 Automotive differential locking mechanism
A differential carrier in accordance with the invention comprises a rotatable housing and permanent differential locking members installed within cavities of the housing. The locking members have locking holes with teeth that immovably link the locking members with the drive axle shafts. The locking members also include locking protrusions projecting from the locking members with the locking protrusions mechanically engaging the housing such that the locking members rotate simultaneously with rotation of the housing, whereby the locking members cause the axle shafts to rotate such that oppositely disposed wheels mounted on the axle shafts simultaneously and continuously rotate.
US07722492B2 Closing link for a bicycle chain
A closing link for a bicycle chain that includes a first outer link plate having a first elongated hole and a first chain pin extending therefrom and a second outer link plate having a second elongated hole and a second chain pin extending therefrom. The first chain pin is received in the second elongated hole and the second chain pin is received in the first elongated hole Each chain pin has a head at one end, a foot at the other end and a groove therebetween. Each elongated hole has a larger diameter end, a smaller diameter end and a displacement region therebetween. The larger diameter end has a diameter larger than a diameter of the pin head. The smaller diameter end receives the groove of the chain pin and includes a countersink to receive the pin head. The displacement region includes sides having recessed and unrecessed portions. The recessed portions have a smaller depth than a depth of the countersink at least in the region of the countersink.
US07722490B2 Cones, configurations, and adjusters for friction and non-friction dependent continuous variable transmissions
Cones or cone assemblies with one or two oppositely positioned torque transmitting devices, such as torque transmitting arcs of constant pitch (formed by torque transmitting members) or teeth. The torque transmitting devices will be used for torque transmission between at least one means for coupling, such as transmission belt or chain, and a cone or cone assembly. The cones or cone assemblies can be used to construct CVT's for which significant circumferential sliding between the torque transmitting surfaces of the torque transmitting devices and the torque transmitting surfaces of the means for coupling engaged to them due to change in pitch diameter can be eliminated, as to reduce wear and frictional energy loses typical in similar devices of prior art and allow the usage of positive engagement devices, such as teeth, in coupling the torque transmitting devices with their means for coupling. CVT's that consist of at least one cone or one cone assembly of this invention that is coupled by a means for coupling to at least one means for conveying rotational energy, such as a pulley, a sprocket, a cone assembly of this invention, or a cone of this invention. Adjuster systems that can increase the performance of the CVT's of this invention and other CVT's that suffer from either or both transition flexing and a limited duration at which the transmission ratio can be changed, so that efficient non-friction dependent CVT's and efficient friction dependent CVT's that do not suffer from transition flexing and/or a limited duration at which the transmission ratio can be changed can be constructed.
US07722485B2 Tennis serve ball machine cum training device
This invention, called Serve Assist, is an electro-mechanical ball machine for practicing the tennis serve. It helps a tennis student to practice serves by consistently dropping the ball in the desired location. It operates in one of two modes, an Auto-feed mode in which it drops the balls in the magazine via an overhead ball release canister at regular intervals or in an Auto-sense mode where the ball is released by the detection of the student's rising tossing arm. The invention also marks the desired height of contact on the dropping ball with a laser and provides visual feedback if the ball is being struck lower than optimum. It aids the student by developing a kinetic and visual memory of the correct ball toss position and point of contact.
US07722479B2 Golf club with deep undercut
A golf club head having a deep undercut is disclosed and claimed. The club head includes a cavity in a back portion thereof, opposite the striking face. A recess is provided in the back portion of the club head in proximity of the heel and, optionally, the sole. The recess may extend to the hosel bore, and may be separate from the cavity. An insert, such as a dampening member or a weight member, may be positioned within the recess. The recess and any insert provided therein alter the club head moment of inertia and center of gravity location, providing an improved feel to the golf club.
US07722475B2 Releasable and interchangeable connections for golf club heads and shafts
Golf club heads are releasably engaged with shafts so that the club heads and shafts can be readily interchanged and/or so that the shaft position with respect to the club head can be readily changed. Assemblies for connecting the club head and shaft may include: (a) a shaft engaging member including a rotation-inhibiting structure; (b) a club head engaging member including a shaft-receiving chamber and a retaining structure for engaging the rotation-inhibiting structure; and (c) a securing system for releasably securing the shaft engaging member with respect to the club head engaging member. The club head and shaft may be changed by releasing the securing system and exchanging the original parts with different parts. Furthermore, the shaft may be bent or otherwise extend at an angle from the shaft engaging member so as to allow adjustment of the shaft position with respect to the club head.
US07722472B2 Billiards stroke training device
This invention relates generally to billiards, and more specifically, to systems and methods for providing a billiards stroke training device. In one embodiment, the invention includes a harness, a sleeve, a guide, the guide being coupled to the sleeve; and a post, the post being coupled to the harness, the post being configurable to limit motion of the guide, wherein the harness is configurable to being worn on an upper torso of a billiards player, wherein the sleeve is configurable to being worn on an arm of the billiards player, and wherein motion of the arm of the billiards player is limited to that provided for by the guide.
US07722471B2 Billiard game with chess indicia and method of play
A game is played on a billiard type table using balls with indicia of chess pieces. A cue stick is used to strike the balls following rules of movement that vary with the indicia on the ball to be moved. Game rules control movement and pocketing of balls are representative of the movement and capture of chess pieces, but are modified for use on a billiard table. The game is also adaptable to other playing surfaces including electronic displays.
US07722470B2 Flying arrangement
A flying arrangement, consisting of at least one flying unit that is able to start vertically and that can accommodate at least one person for flying freely within at least a hall, the boundaries of which prevent a flying unit from leaving the hall.
US07722464B2 Gaming system which provides multiple players multiple bonus awards
A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines. Upon a suitable triggering event at a triggering gaming device in the gaming system a bonus event occurs. When the bonus event occurs, the players actively playing each auxiliary gaming device in the gaming system are each provided a chance to participate in the bonus event as well. Each remaining gaming device's chance of participating in the bonus event is based on the individual accumulated bonus event pool for that gaming device.
US07722461B2 Method and system for time gaming with skill wagering opportunities
A method and system for players to purchase a time credit, play a vibrant console type skill game and place countless numbers of bets until the time credit has elapsed. A two-player console type skill game allows two players to enter a fierce challenge and place countless numbers of bets until the time credit has elapsed. Wherever gaming regulation allows time-gaming AutoBet, then the bet outcome result (instead of fixed points) is briefly shown and accumulated each time a winning or losing feature is hit along the play path; otherwise a “BET” or “No Bet” prompt confirms that a betting opportunity has been offered and requests that the player confirm his or her intention to place the bet.
US07722459B2 System and method for performing bet protection
A method of playing a game (e.g., blackjack or other wagering game), where the user is provided with the option of purchasing bet insurance by paying an additional fee at the time the time he/she pays the subscription fee. At a predetermined time during the course of the subscription period, and if the player is below a predetermined number of total points or other standing, the player's bet protection is automatically applied, and the player is refunded his initial subscription fee with the gaming operator keeping the insurance fee. Further, the player is eliminated from the plurality of game sessions for the remaining time of that subscription period.
US07722452B2 Game program and game device
A game program of the present invention causes a computer to execute a first delete condition setting step of setting a delete condition of puzzle elements in which puzzle elements of the same kind in a first number or more are continuously arranged in a predetermined direction as a first delete condition and a second delete condition setting step of setting a next delete condition of the puzzle elements in which puzzle elements of the same kind in a second number which is smaller than the first number or more are continuously arranged in a predetermined direction as a second delete condition when it is judged that the first delete condition is achieved in the first delete condition judgment step.
US07722450B2 Game system, program, and information storage medium
A game system including: a music reproduction section which reproduces given music data stored in a storage section; a display control section which performs display control of changing a relative positional relationship among a direction mark which directs an operation to be performed by a player using an operation section, a special direction mark for the second game and a reference mark for timing judgment of the operation in association with a reproduction state of the music data to cause the direction mark and the reference mark to come closer; a timing acquisition section which acquires operation timing when the player operates the operation section for the direction mark; and a game calculation section which performs calculation processing of a first game of comparing the acquired operation timing with timing criteria and calculation processing of a second game differing from the first game based on operation information of the operation section for the special direction mark.
US07722449B2 Air channel grill for security institutions
A security grill for a security institution has an air inlet face, an air outlet face, and zigzag channels extending from a point adjacent the inlet face toward the outlet face. The zigzag channels are defined by slats which are bent at least twice in alternating directions. The zigzag channels are divided into segments each having a cross-sectional width. The segments adjacent the air outlet face have a cross-sectional width less than any of the other segments along the channel. The slats are bent at certain angles which are larger than those of conventional security grills. Corners are created along each slat as a result of bending the slats in alternating directions. The corners are rounded.
US07722448B2 Dehider with governor and strengthened blade
A dehider includes a pneumatic motor driving a pair of disk blades in opposed cutting oscillations and a governor that controls the speed of the motor. Governor balls, acting as centrifugal weights, spin with the motor and push against an inclined flange on a valve head to move the valve head towards a valve seat. The motion of the valve head compresses a biasing spring and restricts the flow of pressurized air as the desired speed is exceeded. As speed decreases, centrifugal force decreases and the biasing spring opens the valve to provide additional power to the motor. The disk blades are provided with a cylindrical central lip that substantially increases the area of the central bearing that the blades turn on and produces significantly longer blade life.
US07722443B2 Knife blade dressing apparatus
A dressing device for sharpening or conditioning of a blade or the like includes one or more disk pairs each having a pair of disks respectively presenting a plurality of ribs. The disks are oriented in face-to-face relationship with the ribs thereof in meshed, intercalated relationship to thereby create circumferential dressing openings. The ribs are configured to create sharpened edge on a knife blade or the like.
US07722438B1 Air blow functionality for disc sander
A pneumatic tool with an air blow device. The pneumatic tool, a dual action (DA) sander, includes a nozzle and air blow valve. Compressed air is provided via a DA supply line and an air blow supply line to independently power the DA sander and the air blow device, respectively. The DA sander has an actuator for activating a tool piece including a mounting disc and sandpaper. The air blow device is activated by depressing an actuating button on the air blow valve to open the air blow valve. Layout of the tool piece and the air blow device provide for independent operation of the tool piece and the air blow device.
US07722436B2 Run-to-run control of backside pressure for CMP radial uniformity optimization based on center-to-edge model
During planarization of wafers, the thickness of a layer of a wafer is measured at a number of locations, after the wafer has been planarized by chemical mechanical polishing. The thickness measurements are used to automatically determine, from a center to edge profile model to which the measurements are fit, a parameter that controls chemical mechanical polishing, called “backside pressure.” Backside pressure is determined in some embodiments by a logic test based on the center-to-edge profile model, coefficient of determination R-square of the model, and current value of backside pressure. Note that a “backside pressure” set point is adjusted only if the fit of the measurements to the model is good, e.g. as indicated by R-square being greater than a predetermined limit. Next, the backside pressure that has been determined from the model is used in planarizing a subsequent wafer.
US07722433B2 Clothes with back part such as brassiere
A garment includes a brassiere with a back part, in which back cloths are formed thin without concaves and convexs, and only head parts of male and female engaging devices appear on outer surfaces of the back cloths, thereby providing a stylish appearance, which is plane and neat, and providing a comfortable feeling without a feeling of discomfort when worn. The garment includes a back part of a brassiere or the like which can be freely put on and off by using the male and female engaging devices (12) and (16) provided to the back cloths (4) welded to an area from underarm parts toward a back of a wearer. The male and female engaging devices (12) and (16) are integrally attached onto inner surface portions of the back cloths (4). The head parts (12a) and (16a) of the male and female engaging devices (12) and (16) are exposed to an outside through slits (13).
US07722428B2 Pull toy
In an embodiment, a pull toy comprises a body; a first limb element that is joined to the body; a second limb element that is joined to the body at an angle with respect to the first limb element; wherein the second limb element is joined to the body at about a linear midpoint of the second limb element and wherein the first limb element is joined to the body at about a linear midpoint of the first limb element.
US07722427B2 Moving toy utilizing magnetic force
A moving toy utilizing a magnetic force movable by itself without exposing the presence of a moving force by using an interaction force by the magnetic force without relying on natural fall so that a user can take more enjoyment by the strangeness and sustaining of its movement. The moving toy comprises a moving toy body (11) having a drive belt (13) on which magnetic poles (12) are disposed at prescribed intervals, a drive means (14), and magnetic poles (15) installed on the outer surfaces of the moving toy body. A moving road surface (16) formed in a channel-shaped gutter-like body in cross section comprises magnetic poles (17) installed on the inside bottom surface thereof at prescribed intervals, and magnetic poles (18) installed on the side parts (161) of the moving road surface at prescribed intervals. The moving toy body (11) is moved by itself since the magnetic poles (12) repel against the magnetic poles (17) in the floated state thereof from the moving road surface (16) by a repulsion between the magnetic poles (15) and the magnetic poles (18) and the magnetic poles (12) are moved by the rotation of the drive belt (13) by the drive means (14). The presence of the moving force when the moving toy body (11) is moved becomes hard to know visually.
US07722426B2 Reconfigurable toy extreme sport hang glider
A toy, comprising or a cockpit; and a pair of wings moveably coupled to the cockpit; wherein at least the pair of wings are transformable between a driving configuration and a flying configuration, wherein in the driving configuration the wings extend longitudinally and flank the cockpit, and wherein in the flying configuration the wings extend laterally.
US07722424B2 Electron emitter, method of manufacturing electron emitter, electro-optical device, and electronic apparatus
There are provided an electron emitter of which deviation in electron emission characteristic is small, a method of manufacturing the electron emitter, and an electro-optical device and an electronic apparatus having the electron emitter. The method of manufacturing an electron emitter, in which electrons are emitted from an electron emission portion formed in a conductive film, comprises forming the conductive film in a pattern on a substrate by the use of a droplet jetting method; selectively removing a part of the conductive film; and forming the electron emission portion in the conductive film.
US07722421B2 High temperature ceramic composite for selective emission
A high temperature stable composition includes a first material and a second material interspersed within the first material so as to form a structure. The composition is structured such that the first and second materials maintain a periodicity of distribution between about 100 nm and about 1000 nm, and the composition is operable to reflect photons having a wavelength greater than about 700 nm and to emit or transmit photons having a wavelength between about 400 nm and about 700 nm at temperatures greater than about 2000 Kelvin for at least about 10 hours.
US07722420B2 Manufacturing method of a plasma display panel having a base layer along a first direction and a phosphor layer along a second direction that intersects the first direction
A manufacturing method of a PDP includes: a partition forming step to form a first partition (124) and a second partition (125) substantially perpendicular to the first partition (124) on an address-electrode dielectric layer (122) of a rear substrate (120); a base layer forming step to form a base layer after the partition forming step by moving a base-forming-agent applying nozzle (200) along a second groove formed between the second partitions (125) and applying a base forming agent (201) thereto; and a phosphor layer forming step to form a phosphor layer after the base layer forming step by moving a phosphor applying nozzle along a first groove formed between the first partitions (124) and applying a phosphor paste thereto.
US07722416B2 Electrical connection system for use on aluminum wires
A connection mechanism includes a metal segment in mechanical and electrical communication with the remainder of the connection mechanism on at least one side. The segment includes at least one tab protruding from the segment on a first side and a central area of the segment with a plurality of metal deformations. When the metal deformations are pressed into aluminum, they are capable of piercing through corrosion on the surface of the aluminum in order to make electrical contact with the aluminum.
US07722415B2 In-line connector
Connectors are provided herein for connecting two elongated members that are positioned in-line to one another. Advantageously, the connectors not only allow for connection of the two members to permit for mechanical, electrical, EMI, and/or grounding applications, the connectors have provisions for accommodating thermal expansion and offset, which may include angular and/or axial offset. In certain embodiments, one or more collapsible housing pins or collars are provided to permit assembly and disassembly by either extending the housing pin or collapsing the housing pin.
US07722413B2 Electrical connector with reduced press-in resistance for terminals
A press-in hole (16) of a housing (10) is formed to be gradually wider from the front end toward the rear end, a large dimensional difference between the width of the press-in hole 16 and that of a press-in portion (21) of a tab-shaped terminal (20) is ensured at a front end portion of the press-in hole 16, so that the tab-shaped terminal (20) can be reliably retained in the housing (10). On the other hand, since the dimensional difference between the width of the press-in hole 16 and that of the press-in portion (21) is small at a rear end portion of the press-in hole (16), press-in resistance at an initial stage of a press-in process is reduced.
US07722412B2 Return pad cable connector
A return pad cable connector, in accordance with the present disclosure, for use with a disposable return pad, includes a cord having a conductive wire disposed therethrough which conductive wire interconnects the return pad cable connector to an electrosurgical energy source. The return pad further includes a connector operatively coupled to the cord, the connector having a conductive surface which is selectively engageable with a corresponding conductive surface disposed on the return pad, the conductive surface of the connector including a conductive adhesive disposed thereon and a non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the connector for engagement with a corresponding non-conductive adhesive disposed above the periphery of the conductive surface of the return pad. The connector can include a magnet for magnetically coupling the connector to the conductive surface disposed on the return pad.
US07722410B2 Plug
A RJ-45 plug having a wire holder for arranging conductors of a twisted pair cable between a position at which they are twisted and an end position where they contact contacts within the plug, the wire holder providing conductor paths in more than one plane.
US07722406B2 Output adapting device of plug-in power system
An output adapting device of a plug-in power system is used to connect an output terminal of the plug-in power system with an input terminal of an electronic device, so as to transmit the power from the plug-in power system to the electronic device. The adapting device includes an output adapting terminal and an input adapting terminal respectively corresponding to the output terminal and the input terminal, in which corresponding pins of the corresponding terminals have identical potential, and at least one corresponding pair of pins of the output adapting terminal and the input adapting terminal have different potential. Furthermore, the adapting device also includes an adapting unit for adapting and outputting the power from the output adapting terminal to another pin with identical potential of the input adapting terminal. Therefore, the output terminal of the plug-in power system can be standardized for widely applying in various electronic devices.
US07722404B2 Plug-in connector for printed circuit boards
The invention relates to a plug-in connector for printed circuit boards, comprising a plurality of contact elements, whereby said contact elements have two connecting faces each. The one connecting face is configured as an insulation displacement contact for connecting cores and the other connecting face is configured as a tuning fork contact for contacting contact surfaces on a printed circuit board. The insulation displacement contacts of the contact elements can be inserted into a plastic housing. The insulation displacement contact and the tuning fork contact are arranged in a rotational manner in relation to each other and the contact element is supported on the plastic housing by at least one edge, such that the contact elements are captivated in the plastic housing when connecting forces act upon the insulation displacement contacts. The plastic housing is embodied as a single piece and the part receiving the tuning fork contact is at least partially elastic.
US07722400B2 Differential pair electrical connector having crosstalk shield tabs
A differential pair connector includes a housing having receptacles for receiving differential pair conductors and electrically conductive shielding tabs extending away from the housing between the receptacles for reducing crosstalk between the differential pairs. The tabs insert into a mated connector when an interconnect is formed. By inserting into the second connector, the shield tabs extend a larger ground plane around each differential pair, thus significantly reducing crosstalk within the connector. The connector can be a high density GbX® style daughter card connector mated to a GbX® style backplane connector.
US07722399B2 Connector apparatus
A connector system including a header connector with a header body having an internal surface and an external surface. A plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings extend from the internal surface to the external surface of the header body. A plurality of signal pins are inserted into the plurality of first openings to form an array of pin contacts extending from the internal surface of the header body. A plurality of shield blades are inserted into the plurality of second openings. Each of the plurality of shield blades has at a first end thereof a generally right angle shielding portion configured to be disposed adjacent to a corresponding signal pin. The first ends of the plurality of shield blades are substantially coplanar with the internal surface of the header body.
US07722397B2 Plug connector
The invention relates to a plug connector (10) for the detachable connection of a number of cable pairs (97, 98) with a conductor cross-section of more than 10 mm2, in particular, for the supply of the welding current in welding robots, wherein individual contact elements (52, 60), with a conducting connection to the cables (97, 98), may be plugged into an insulated plug housing (11) with a clipping action and are detachably held in the plug housing (11) or terminal housing (12), the clipping action of the contact elements (52, 60) in the housings (11, 12) being achieved by an elastic deformation of the housings (11, 12). Manipulation is facilitated in that the housing (11, 12) is made from a material of such a hardness that the plugging in and exchange of contact elements can be achieved without the use of tools.
US07722394B2 Electrical termination device
An electrical termination device includes an electrically conductive shield element, an insulator disposed within the shield element, and one or more electrical contacts supported within and electrically isolated from the shield element by the insulator. The insulator includes one or more first keying elements configured to orient and retain the one or more electrical contacts in the insulator. The one or more first keying elements may be configured to prevent the one or more electrical contacts from rotating in the insulator when the one or more electrical contacts and the insulator are in a correctly assembled configuration, and prevent assembly of the insulator into an electrically conductive shield element when the one or more electrical contacts are incorrectly oriented in the insulator. The electrical termination device may be included in an electrical connector.
US07722393B1 Battery connector
A battery connector adapted for being electrically connected with a printed circuit board includes an insulating housing defining a plurality of terminal passageways, a plurality of fixing members fastened in the insulating housing and stretching beyond a top surface of the insulating housing for being soldered to the printed circuit board, and a plurality of electrical terminals disposed in the corresponding terminal passageways and each having a fixing board, a first contact portion stretching out of a bottom surface of the insulating housing and a substantially lying-V shaped second elastic portion extended from a top of the fixing board. A free end of the second elastic portion stretches out of the top surface of the insulating housing and is arched upward to form a second contact portion capable of elastically abutting against the printed circuit board.
US07722388B1 System for a mobile unit charging and connection
A system provides a charging and a connection for a mobile unit. The system includes a housing of a mobile unit that couples to a latch. The housing comprises a loop and a panel. The loop is disposed on a top portion of the housing and receives a hook of the latch. The panel is disposed on a back portion of the housing and receives a corresponding panel of the latch. The panel includes a first set of electrical contacts that couple to a second set of electrical contacts of the corresponding panel to establish an electrical connection.
US07722387B2 Board connector, mating connector, and electronic device including the same
A board connector has a plurality of contacts, an insulator holding the plurality of contacts, and a shell covering at least a part of the insulator. Each contact has an SMT terminal to be connected to a wiring pattern on a board. The insulator has a first insulator portion extending in an X-direction and two second insulator portions each extending in a Y-direction perpendicular to the X-direction. The first insulator portion has a bottom surface and first ends in the X-direction. Each second insulator portion has second ends. Each second insulator portion extends from the first ends to the second ends, respectively. The second ends are positioned on an imaginary straight line. The first insulator portion, the second insulator portions, and the imaginary straight line define a predetermined area. The SMT terminals are held by the insulator so that the SMT terminals are positioned within the predetermined area.
US07722385B2 Connector and a connector assembly
A lock hole (22) in the form of a window is formed to penetrate a front end portion of a lock arm (15) resiliently displaceable like a seesaw. In a state where two housings (10, 50) are not connected yet, a movement of the detector (30) to a detection position is prevented by such engagement of a latching projection (39) with the lock hole (22) as not to move any further forward. A pair of reinforcing ribs (23) extending from the front end of the lock arm (15) to a position slightly behind inclination supporting legs (16) of the lock arm (15) and arranged at the opposite widthwise sides of the lock hole (22) are formed to project from the lock arm (15). The reinforcing ribs (23) increase the rigidity of the front end portion of the lock arm (15).
US07722384B2 In-line push-in wire connector
A push-in wire connector has an enclosure made of left and right housings. Each housing has a wire entry port and a wire receptacle box aligned with a respective wire entry port and receptacle box of the other housing. The wire entry ports face in opposite directions. A terminal is disposed within the enclosure and includes a busbar which is positioned between the wire ports. A spring member has spring fingers for biasing inserted conductors into engagement with the busbar.
US07722383B2 Receiving element for fixing a component to a brush carrier
The present invention relates to a fastening device for fastening a component (4; 15) to a brush carrier (1) for an electrical machine. The fastening device is integral with the brush carrier (1) and has at least one tapered region (7; 25, 26). When installed, the component (4; 15) is located in the tapered region (7; 25, 26).
US07722382B2 Wire retention connector system
A wire retaining connector, connector system and method of connecting wires to connectors to reduce or eliminate unintentional wire disconnection from wire connectors, including disconnection of poke-in connectors. The connectors and connector systems include a connector body having at least one opening configured to receive a wire, the wire including a partially exposed conductor and insulation. The connector body further includes a wire retention member having at least one surface onto which a wire may be engaged. A cutting projection may also be provided on the wire connector to form a channel in the insulation during insertion of the wire into the connector. The wire retention member or the projection provides sufficient retention of the wire to resist disconnection of the wire from the connector body. A method for connecting wires to the connectors is also provided.
US07722376B2 Socket for electronic devices
A socket (10) for electronic devices has a plurality of retainers (500). Each retainer (500) has a first member (501), a first shaft (507) for pivotably connecting a proximal portion of the first member with a lower frame (200) so the distal portion of the first member moves between an operative position in which the distal portion of the first member stays on the electronic device to make contact with an upper surface of the electronic device and an inoperative position in which the distal portion of the first member stays away from the electronic device, a second member (512) having a distal portion and a proximal portion, a second shaft (510) for pivotably connecting the distal portion of the second member with the intermediate portion of the first member; and a third shaft (517) for pivotably connecting the proximal portion of the second member with the upper frame.
US07722368B2 Device for connecting with secure access
The invention relates to a device for connecting with secure access, comprising a socket (1), a movable plug (non visible), a protective case (3) equipped with a mobile flap (4), and locking members. According to the invention, the locking members include a mobile latch (5), a runner (6), and a key (7) in order to maneuver the latch in the runner, the latch (5) being designed to retain the flap (4) in the closed configuration of the case (3), and in order to retain the plug in the state of use of this device.
US07722367B2 Apparatus for distributing electrical power and/or communication signals
In one embodiment, an electrical power distribution apparatus is disclosed which includes a track made up of a plurality of track sections connected together by/to joints and end sections. The track sections are each provided with a slot with which a power point connector may be engaged at any point by inserting a contact member of the connector through the slot at a chosen point and then rotating the connector by 90 degrees to bring the contact member into engagement with electrical conductors of the track. The apparatus may comprise a further conduit containing conductors used to distribute communication signals.
US07722366B2 Board-mounted electrical connector
An electrical connector is provided for mounting on a circuit board and includes a dielectric housing mounting a plurality of first terminals having circuit board press-fit portions projecting therefrom. A plurality of second terminals are mounted on the housing and have circuit board press-fit portions projecting therefrom. A press-fitting block is engageable with the housing and is locked to the first terminals for press-fitting the first terminals into holes in the circuit board. The press-fit portions of the second terminals are exposed exteriorly of the housing and the press-fitting block for locking engagement by an appropriate independent pressfitting jig for press-fitting the second terminals into holes in the circuit board.
US07722362B2 Sensor adaptor circuit housing incapsulating connection of an input connector with a wire
A sensor adaptor circuit housing assembly and method of manufacturing includes a circuit board, a housing, an input wire, and a connector. The circuit board includes an electrical circuit configured for receiving a sensor signal and generating a sensor characteristic in response to the received sensor signal. The housing includes a body and a cavity defined by inner surfaces of the body and adapted for receiving the circuit board, the circuit board being positioned within the cavity. The input wire is configured for receiving the signal from a sensor and can be formed with an insulated solid or stranded conductor. The connector includes a unitary body, a first end of the unitary body attached directly to an end of the input wire, a second end of the unitary body positioned within the cavity and attached directly to the circuit board and making a first electrical connection with the electrical circuit.
US07722357B2 Educational pillow case
The present invention provides an apparatus and method concerning an educational pillow case. The pillow case comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, the interior surface providing at least one room for casing a pillow and the exterior surface having a shape of a stuffed toy. The pillow case also comprises a plurality of pockets for carrying objects. At least one of the plurality of pockets is located on the exterior surface and displays objects and at least another of the plurality of pockets is located on the interior surface. The pillow case of the present invention further comprises a plurality of sets of detachable pieces. At least one of the plurality of pockets and at least one set of detachable pieces enable receiving information for the program for raising children. The objects include messages, or objectives, or incentives, or rewards, or a combination thereof. The at least one set of detachable pieces is arranged for exposing and updating information on an evolution of a behavior.
US07722352B2 Multi-piece candle fuel element
A candle fuel element includes a wick-holder assembly having a longitudinally disposed wick spaced from a heat-conductive element and a first solid fuel charge disposed between the wick and the heat-conductive element. A second solid fuel charge slidably engages and at least partly surrounds the wick-holder assembly. The heat-conductive element is disposed between the first solid fuel charge and the second solid fuel charge. The heat-conductive element defines a lateral opening adapted to allow fluid communication between the first solid fuel charge and the second solid fuel charge.
US07722351B2 Injection molding apparatus having magnetic valve pin coupling
A magnetic coupling for an injection molding apparatus, such as a hot half or hot runner, includes a first magnetic part for connection to an actuator, a valve pin plate, or the like and a movable second magnetic part for connection to a valve pin. The first magnetic part and the second magnetic part are coupled by a magnetic force. The first magnetic part can be part of the actuator. The second magnetic part can be part of the valve pin. A valve pin plate can be provided for a plurality of valve pins.
US07722349B2 Injection molding machine having a check valve closing position determining device
An injection molding machine estimates a check valve wear amount, making it possible to predict a check valve use limit. At start of injection, the check valve is at a position advanced a stroke S0 with respect to a screw position (a position of a check seat that contacts the check valve and closes a resin flow channel). As the screw advances, the check valve retreats and closes when the screw moves a distance X0. When the check valve is worn ΔS (S1=S0+ΔS), it closes when the screw moves X1. Since the check valve stroke and the distance the screw moves until the check valve closes are proportional, S0/X0=S1/X1=a. Therefore, ΔS=aX1−S0, and the wear amount ΔS can be obtained by detecting the check valve closing position X1 and using this position X1 and the known stroke S0. The closing position is detected from the peak value of rotational force acting on the screw. Once the wear amount is obtained, the check valve use limit can be predicted from an allowable value of wear.
US07722345B2 Screw compressor
In a screw compressor, a pair of rotors are located in a housing to be rotatable around their rotary axes to form in the housing a compression chamber in which gas sucked from a suction port of the housing is compressed thereby discharging the compressed gas from a discharge port of the housing. The suction port is provided in the housing at a position radial outside of the rotors, and the housing is provided with a communication passage through which the suction port communicates with the compression chamber before being communicated with the suction port. Furthermore, the communication passage is provided such that the gas sucked from the suction port flows into the communication passage in a direction approximately parallel with an axial direction of the rotors.
US07722343B2 Sealed-type rotary compressor and refrigerating cycle device
A sealed-type rotary compressor includes a rotary drive unit and a compression mechanism coupled via a rotary shaft pivotally supported by a main bearing and a sub-bearing, and roller bearings. In the compressor, there are provided an oil filler opening which is provided to the rotary shaft along its center axis from one end face and which introduces lubricant of the bottom of an closed case, and oil filler openings, one end of which opens into the oil filler opening and the other end of which opens into the outer circumferential surface of the rotary shaft and which feed lubricant to roller bearings are equipped. The oil filler openings are formed to open towards the direction subject to the load when the roller bearings are subject to a large load.
US07722342B2 Pump apparatus and power steering
In order to realize cost reduction in a gear pump apparatus by reducing form accuracy of a gear while securing pump performance, a running-in coating is provided on a tooth sliding contact portion when forming a confinement area in at least one of gears of the gear pump apparatus. By this feature, the running-in coating is gradually worn away and deformed according to rotary drive of the pump, and thus it is possible to obtain an optimal gear form in meshing combinations of the gears. Further, it is possible to reduce leakage inside the pump to secure the pump performance even if the form accuracy of the gear is reduced for the sake of the cost reduction.
US07722341B2 Scroll compressor having variable height scroll
A scroll compressor is provided. The scroll compressor includes a fixed scroll and an orbiting scroll, each with a wrap extending from a plate. The wrap or the plate may have different heights so as to prevent a gap from forming between the end of one of the wraps and the opposite plate. Accordingly, performance of the compressor may be enhanced even if manufacturing tolerances are not precisely controlled or the compressor operates for an extended period of time. Furthermore, frictional loss due to increased frictional area of an edge of the plate may be prevented, and refrigerant leakage due to separation between the wrap and the plate may be prevented.
US07722339B2 Compressor including attached compressor container
There is provided a high performance compressor that causes no possibility of mixing foreign materials or of leaking refrigerant, that reduces strain otherwise generated in a compressor mechanism section and that is highly reliable even for a long-term use. The compressor mechanism section in which pairs of prepared holes are formed at a plurality of points on an outer peripheral face thereof is disposed within the closed container. Caulking punches are positioned to positions corresponding to those of the prepared holes and a region including the corresponding positions is heated. Then, when the punches are driven by pressing machines, portions of the container wall of the closed container plastically deform as the convex portions and enter the prepared holes. When the container wall cools down, the pair of convex portions of the container clamps a part between the prepared holes.
US07722337B2 Piston compressor cylinder arrangement, particularly for a hermetically enclosed refrigerant compressor
The invention concerns a piston compressor cylinder arrangement (1), particularly for a hermetically enclosed refrigerant compressor, with a cylinder body (2) and a cylinder head arrangement (7), the cylinder body (2) having a first front side (6) in the area of the cylinder head arrangement (7) and a second front side (8) at the other end. It is endeavoured to manufacture such a cylinder arrangement in a cost-effective manner without having to fear for a deformation during mounting. For this purpose, a cup-shaped mounting sleeve (9) surrounds the cylinder body (2) over its full axial working length with a radial distance on all sides.
US07722336B2 Compressor wheel
An exemplary compressor wheel includes a proximate end, a distal end, an axis of rotation, a z-plane positioned between the proximate end and the distal end and a proximate end extension wherein the extension includes one or more pilot diameters and an engagement mechanism for engagement with an operational shaft of a turbocharger.
US07722333B2 Portable dry air compressor system
A portable air compressor assembly comprising a compressor configured to supply pressurized air along a first path at a first pressure. The compressor assembly further comprises at least first and second outlet valves. A first outlet path extends between the first outlet valve and the first path and a second outlet path extends between the second outlet valve and the first path. A first regulator is positioned along the first outlet path and is configured to regulate the pressure of air at the first outlet valve to a first outlet pressure distinct from the first path pressure. A second regulator is positioned along the second outlet path and is configured to regulate the pressure of air at the second outlet valve to a second outlet pressure distinct from the first path pressure and the first outlet pressure.
US07722330B2 Rotating apparatus disk
A method (20) of fabricating a large component such as a gas turbine or compressor disk (32) from segregation-prone materials such as Alloy 706 or Alloy 718 when the size of the ingot required is larger than the size that can be predictably formed without segregations using known triple melt processes. A sound inner core ingot (12) is formed (22) to a first diameter (D1), such as by using a triple melt process including vacuum induction melting (VIM), electroslag remelting (ESR), and vacuum arc remelting (VAR). Material is than added (26) to the outer surface (16) of the core ingot to increase its size to a dimension (D2) required for the forging operation (28). A powder metallurgy or spray deposition process may be used to apply the added material. The added material may have properties that are different than those of the core ingot and may be of graded composition across its depth. This process overcomes ingot size limitations for segregation-prone materials.
US07722329B2 Airfoil for a third stage nozzle guide vane
The present invention provides an airfoil for a third stage nozzle guide vane having an external surface with first and second sides. The external surface extends spanwise between a hub and a tip and streamwise between a leading edge and a trailing edge of the airfoil. The external surface includes a contour substantially defined by Table 1 as listed in the specification.
US07722320B2 Flow-guiding member unit and its production method
A flow-guiding member unit used for assembling a flow-guiding member comprising pluralities of vanes, an outer platform and an inner platform, the unit comprising an integral body member comprising one vane portion, an outer platform portion, and an inner platform portion, a first elastic member attached to a step of the outer platform portion, and a second elastic member attached to a step of the inner platform portion, the body member being formed by the thermal compression of sheet-molding compounds or fiber-reinforced resin pellets, and the first and second elastic members being made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
US07722317B2 CMC to metal attachment mechanism
A CMC wall (20F) may be attached to a metal wall (22F) by a plurality of bolts (28A, 28B, 28C) passing through respective holes (24A, 24B, 24C) in the CMC wall (20F) and holes in the metal wall (22F), clamping the walls (20F, 22F) together with a force that allows sliding thermal expansion but does not allow vibrational shifting. Distal ones of the holes (24A, 24B) in the CMC wall (20F) or in the metal wall (22F) are elongated toward a central one of the bolts (24C) or at alternate angles to guide differential thermal expansion (20T) of the CMC wall (20F) versus the metal wall (22F) between desired cold and hot geometries. A second CMC wall (20R) may be mounted similarly to a second metal wall (22R) by pins (39A, 39B, 39C) that allow expansion of the CMC component (201) in a direction normal to the walls (20F, 20R).
US07722307B2 System and method for handling stocked items
A system for controlling stocked items to be picked in a warehouse. The system has a first support assembly upon which a plurality of items can be stored in a predetermined array, including a plurality of rows, and from which stored items can be picked from a first location. The first support assembly has at least (a) a first state with no item upon the first support assembly, (b) a second state with at least one item in at least one of the rows and no items in another of the rows and (c) a third state with at least one item in each of the plurality of rows. The system includes a repositioning assembly that is operable to cause an item upon the first support assembly to be shifted from a first position in a first row to a second position in a second row. An item upon the first support assembly is situated to be more accessible to an operator for picking from the first location with the item in the second position than with the item in the first position. The system further includes a controller through which the repositioning assembly is selectively operated.
US07722306B2 Image forming system
An image forming system including a binding system section that generates a stack of sheets by accumulating a plurality of sheets and that binds the sheets by wrapping the stack of sheets with a cover sheet in the shape of a horizontal U, the image forming system having: a measurement section to measure the thickness of the stack of sheets; a spine cover width determining section to determine a spine cover width in the cover sheet based on the thickness of the stack of sheets measured by the measurement section; and an image forming section to form on the cover sheet a front cover image and a back cover image separating them by a spacing equal to the spine cover width.
US07722305B2 Pin with spherical lead-in portion
A pin has a shank with a spherical lead-in portion at the free end thereof. The spherical lead-in portion has a diameter that is equal to or slightly less than the diameter of a cylindrical portion of the pin. The purpose of the spherical lead-in portion is to allow a greater portion of the pin to enter a matching hole before further alignment of the centerlines of the pin and the hole is required. This makes aligning the centerlines significantly easier and reduces wear on the structure defining the matching hole. A relief portion following the spherical lead-in portion as well as a chamfer following the relief portion aid in the final alignment.
US07722304B2 Thread locking/prevailing torque fastener and fastener assembly
A thread locking fastener assembly comprising a nut anchor defining an internal thread having a longitudinal axis, a leading face and a trailing face, the internal thread, in axial section, having a profile which is symmetric about a first imaginary line extending radially out from the axis, and a fastener shank having an external thread with a longitudinal axis, a leading face and trailing face, the external thread being received in said internal thread so that said axes are substantially coincident. The external thread, in axial section, has a profile with a radially inner base zone which is symmetric about a second imaginary line extending radially from the shank axis and a radially outer deflectable addendum which is not symmetric about that line so that the addendum prevents axial centralization of the external thread profile in the internal thread profile unless a sufficient axial force is applied to the shank to deflect the addendum.
US07722299B2 Twist drill
A twist drill for metal cutting, made of cemented carbide, including helical chip flutes extending through an entire body of the twist drill or a part thereof, a shank to be secured to a rotary spindle, two main cutting edges, and two leading edges. The leading edges have a larger edge radius than that of the cutting edges.
US07722295B2 Expansion shell assembly
An expansion shell assembly for mine roof bolts includes an expansion member threaded onto an associated mine roof bolt. A support device is annularly disposed around the associated roof bolt. An expansion shell is annularly disposed around the associated roof bolt between the expansion member and the support device. The expansion shell has a base ring for engaging the support device and fingers for engaging a peripheral edge of the expansion member. The engagement between the base ring and the support device permits axial traverse movement of the support device relative to the expansion shell for tensioning the roof bolt.
US07722292B2 Soil decontamination by mechanically activated oxidation
A method of performing soil decontamination including mechanically mixing the soil with solid oxidant prior to any addition of water and until an exothermic reaction between the oxidant and contaminants within the soil occur, adding only necessary water to obtain an homogeneous mix between the soil and the oxidant, and mechanically mixing the soil with the oxidant and the water for a predetermined period of time to allow the oxidant to at least partially oxidize the contaminants.
US07722290B2 Transportable wave generating module and watercraft
A transportable module for use in generating waves in a body of water, having a tubular chamber with a predetermined length and width equal to or less than the maximum length permitted for transportation on a predetermined type of road. The chamber includes a rear valve located at the rear end to permit flow into the chamber and substantially block flow out of the chamber and a gas port proximate to the rear end for the admission of compressed gas into the chamber. The module includes an anchoring system, such as an integrated ballast tank, a connecting system mounted on the outer surface of the module by which the module may be detachably connected in parallel with other such modules in a side to side manner to form a barge or scalable wave generator. Individually, the modules are is capable of being transported by road to a desired body of water for use.
US07722289B2 Systems and methods for underground storage of biogas
Systems and methods for producing purified biogas are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, a method includes collecting biogas from a landfill, transporting the biogas to a first well, injecting the biogas into the first well, and pressurizing the first well to store the biogas.
US07722287B2 Resilient athletic flooring surface
An athletic surface having a resilient layer operatively positioned on the supporting structure including a top playing surface; and a bottom surface associated with the supporting base structure. The bottom surface associated with the supporting base structure includes a first side surface and a second side surface, both of which extend in the longitudinal direction of the layer. The said bottom surface also includes a first end surface and a second end surface, both of which extend in the transverse direction of the layer. The top playing surface of the athletic flooring system includes a drainage facilitating means associated with the top surface.
US07722286B2 Delineator mounting system
A delineator mounting system has a coupler for mating a delineator having a cylindrical tubular lower end in a mount having square cross-sections.
US07722284B1 Traffic impact attenuator
A Freeway Impact Attenuator is a traffic control or traffic accident impact absorbing device that will be deployed and replaced the conventional sand filled plastic buckets on the highway exits, junctions and temporary highway constructions. The rear support bracket for the temporary deployment to be replaced with concrete block to keep the unit from sliding.The bumper and sliding tube move backwards and simultaneously the water in the cylinder get compressed while piston also moves backwards once impact force exerted to the bumper. The sliding tube and piston is interfaced through the clamp.When the water pressure increases to the level that cylinder piston reaction force overcome the impact, sliding tube will stop prior to the end of cylinder full stroke.Water level inside the tank will also increase and may over flow in some case is depending on the piston traveling in the cylinder.
US07722278B2 Twin duckbill valve assembly
The duckbill valve assembly includes at least two duckbill valve members and a flexible, flat flange member which joins the two duckbill valve members together. The flange connects the duckbill valve members together at their respective bases, thereby maintaining the two duckbill valve members in a particular orientation and arrangement relative to each other.
US07722274B2 Oral care toothbrush
An oral care toothbrush includes a head mounted to one end of the handle containing a plurality of oral care elements. An oral care accessory is mounted to the opposite end of the handle. An oral care material dispenser is mounted in the head within the cleaning field defined by the oral care elements. The toothbrush is preferably made of small size and of lightweight so as to be readily portable for use away from the home.
US07722270B2 Printing system, information processing apparatus, printing apparatus, and printing method
A method in an information processing apparatus which communicates with a printing apparatus which stores print data and print setting information is disclosed. This method includes: an obtaining step of obtaining the print setting information from the printing apparatus; a discriminating step of, if the print setting information obtained in the obtaining step is edited, discriminating whether or not it is necessary to recreate the print data for the printing based on the edited print setting information; and a transmitting step of, if it is determined in the discriminating step that it is unnecessary to recreate the print data, transmitting the edited print setting information to the printing apparatus in order to allow the printing apparatus to print the print data stored in the printing apparatus.
US07722268B2 Tape drive and printing apparatus
A tape drive for use in for example a transfer printing apparatus to drive a printer ribbon. The printer ribbon is mounted on two spools each of which is driven by a respective stepper motor. A controller controls the energization of the motor such that the ribbon is transported in at least one direction between spools mounted on the spool support. The controller is operative to energize both motors to drive the spools of ribbon in the direction of ribbon transport to achieve push-pull operations. Ribbon tension is monitored to enable accurate control of ribbon supply and ribbon take-up, the ribbon tension being monitored, for example, by monitoring power supply to the two stepper motors.
US07722266B2 Camera apparatus having shutter control apparatus
A camera apparatus includes a lens module, an image detecting module, a shutter and a shutter control apparatus. The shutter is disposed between the lens module and the image detecting module. The shutter control apparatus has a switch for controlling the lens module and the shutter. The switch has a first trigger status and a second trigger status. While the switch produces the first trigger status, the lens module automatically focuses. By contrast, while the switch produces the second trigger status, the shutter control apparatus turns on/off the shutter, so that the image detecting module detects an image through the lens module.
US07722265B2 Shutter device and image pickup apparatus
A shutter device makes it possible to restrict bounding of a shutter blade using a shock-absorbing member when movement of the shutter blade is completed. In addition, the shutter device makes it possible to reduce production of dust that is produced when the shock-absorbing member and the shutter blade collide with each other. Examples of dust are wear powder and flake.
US07722263B2 Imager apparatus
An imager apparatus is provided. The imager apparatus includes: a housing that stores a lens device with an imaging lens exposed to the front surface facing a subject; and a lens cover attached to the housing, being movable between a first position covering the imaging lens and a second position opening the same. The lens device includes a lens barrel supporting a lens system including the imaging lens in a fixed and/or movable manner, whose forefront part protrudes forward compared with the imaging lens. A stepped portion corresponding to a level difference between the forefront part of the lens barrel and the imaging lens is provided at part of the front surface of the housing, where the lens device is stored. A peaked portion protruding into the stepped portion to eliminate a gap between the lens cover and the housing is provided on the lens cover.
US07722257B2 Roller bearing cage and tapered roller bearing
A roller bearing cage is made of a resin and has a tapered tubular shape as a whole. In the roller bearing cage, tapered rollers are forcibly fitted to pockets while elastically deforming pillar portions at a small-diameter annular portion side. A stress alleviating portion is provided on at least an outer circumferential side of an end of the pillar portion at the small-diameter annular portion side so that a portion of the pillar portion from a crossing portion between the pillar portion and the small-diameter annular portion to a side of the large-diameter annular portion is linearly cut, thereby alleviating the stress occurring in the pillar portion when the tapered roller is forcibly fitted to the pocket.
US07722256B2 Flat surface air bearing assembly
An air bearing assembly includes: an upper portion having a plurality of air supply and vacuum holes therethrough; a lower portion; and a plurality of spacers disposed between and maintaining the upper and lower portions in spaced relation, wherein a density of the air supply and vacuum holes is high enough to provide an air bearing for a substrate, but low enough such that at least one of: (i) a sufficient number of the spacers are employed, and (ii) the spacers are located in close enough proximity, to maintain a substantially uniform flatness of the upper portion relative to the lower portion.
US07722249B2 Body-temperature measuring device and body-temperature measuring system having the device
A body-temperature measuring device is provided. The device includes: a pad which is attachable to and detachable from a human body; a battery which is provided to the pad and includes a pair of battery terminals for supplying power; and a temperature sensing block which is attached to and detached from the pad and comprises units for contacting the human body to sense temperature and wirelessly transmitting a temperature sensing signal corresponding to the sensed temperature and a pair of connecting terminals which are electrically connected to the battery terminals only when attached to the pad, and a body-temperature measuring system including one or more of the body-temperature measuring devices and a receiver which receives the wirelessly transmitted temperature sensing signal, measures the temperature by using the received signal, and informs of a result of measuring the temperature.
US07722246B1 Method for determining the thermal expansion coefficient of ceramic bodies and glazes
A method of measuring the coefficient of thermal expansion of a ceramic material, including the steps of applying a glaze to a substantially densified refractory body, wherein the coefficient of thermal expansion of either the glaze or the body is known, bonding the glaze to the body, putting the glaze insufficient tension to induce crazing, measuring the average distance between cracks in the crazed glaze; and determining the unknown coefficient of thermal expansion of the glaze or body.
US07722243B2 Automatic drum rotation control concrete transit mixer truck
A concrete transit mixer truck includes a control system that automatically controls rotation of the mixer drum at a constant drum speed when the mixer truck is traveling. When sensed speed of the truck exceeds a threshold, the control system automatically causes a hydraulic system to rotate the drum at a constant speed, regardless of the truck engine speed.
US07722240B2 Surface light source device and transmission display device
A surface light source device and a transmission display device are provided. A surface light source device includes a light source portion, a light controlling sheet located on the output light side of the light source portion, and a light diffusing sheet located on the output light side of the light controlling sheet and including micro-convex structures. The light diffusing sheet includes a transparent base film, and a light diffusing layer coated on a surface of the transparent base film. Micro-beads incorporated in the light diffusion sheet exhibit a lens effect and provide a light condensing effect and a light diffusing effect. As such, the output light properties of the surface light source device can be adjusted to be smoother, thereby providing higher front luminance and avoiding occurrence of moiré.
US07722239B2 Logo display
A logo display includes a light guide plate including a light emitting surface, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) optically coupled to the light guide plate, and a light-transmissive layer disposed on the light emitting surface of the light guide plate. A light-transmissive colored pattern is formed on the light-transmissive layer. The light-transmissive colored pattern is configured for filtering out a color component of the light incident on the light-transmissive layer same as a color of the light-transmissive colored pattern.
US07722237B2 Illuminating device and assembly for illuminating enclosed spaces using the same
A self-contained illuminating device for mounting on or in a closed container for illuminating both the enclosed space of the container and an area of the device which has an insignia or graphic imposed thereon, e.g. for advertising purposes. The device has a shell made of a translucent material and a miniature light source. The shell is adapted to function as an optical waveguide for propagating light emitted by the light source down the shell while simultaneously illuminating surfaces of the shell bearing the advertisement. Additionally, the shell may include a light scattering element for distributing light at a periphery of the shell. The illuminating device comprises a circuitry, including a position-sensitive switch, e.g. a tilt switch, for activating the light source dependent on the position of the device.
US07722233B2 Optical module for a motor vehicle lighting device
An optical module for a motor vehicle lighting device, capable of emitting at least one type of light beam having a cut-off and comprising: a light source disposed in a reflector; a dioptric element, in particular a convergent lens, disposed in front of the reflector; a shield disposed between said light source and said dioptric element; and an additional optical element is disposed between the light source and the shield.
US07722232B2 Lamp unit of vehicle headlamp
A lamp unit of a vehicle lamp includes a projection lens arranged on an optical axis extending in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle, a light-emitting element arranged so as to face upward behind a rear focal point of the projection lens and in the vicinity of the optical axis, and a reflector arranged so as to cover the light-emitting element from above and to reflect the light from the light-emitting element forward toward the optical axis. A mirror member is provided between the reflector and the projection lens. The mirror member includes an upward reflecting surface that upward reflects a portion of the reflected light from the reflector, and a front end edge formed so as to pass through the rear focal point of the projection lens. A region of the upward reflecting surface located nearer a self-lane side than the optical axis is constituted with a horizontal plane including the optical axis. A shielding projection that shields the reflected light from the reflector deflected by the horizontal plane is formed in a position of the horizontal plane that is apart from the front end edge of the upward reflecting surface to a rear side.
US07722230B2 Removable LED light device
A removable LED track light device has a plurality of LED light-units that fit within track means. At least one LED element(s) fits within the LED light-unit's geometric construction such that electrodes of the LED light unit are connected via conductive mean, resilient conductive means, contact means, to bus means that supply electric signal from an AC or DC power source, with circuit means, switch means, sensor means, timer means, and/or control means being included to provide desired light functions for illumination. The LED-units have a geometric construction and space to allow element(s) to be fixed in position or incorporated with reflector means. The LED light-units may also be incorporated bracket means to arrange the LED element assembly away from the LED light-unit base. Hanging means or another electric device also can be added onto the LED light-unit or LED light device to provide even more practical extra functions.
US07722228B2 Method and apparatus for insulating hydroponic lamps
A kit and process for retrofitting hydroponic lamp hoods with thermal insulation, and an apparatus for a thermally insulated hydroponic light hood.
US07722223B2 Line lighting device and image reading device
A structure of a line lighting device permits a rod-like light guide to be attached to a case without rubbing against the case. An end portion of the rod-like light guide provided with a pin is inserted into an opening in a case main body and pushed down, thus making the pin engage with a recess in the case main body. At this time, a distal end of the rod-like light guide is inserted, to some extent, into an opening in a light emitting unit fixing portion. Subsequently, the rod-like light guide is pushed down and pivoted around the pin so as to be completely contained within the case main body. In this state, the distal end of the rod-like light guide is fitted into the opening and the end face of the rod-like light guide is flush with the outer side face of the light emitting unit fixing portion.
US07722222B2 LED lamp assembly
An LED lamp assembly includes a pair of LED lamps facing opposite directions. Each LED lamp includes a heat sink having a heat absorbing portion and a heat dissipating portion. The heat absorbing portion has opposite first and second surfaces. The heat dissipating portion extends rearwards from the first surface of the heat absorbing portion. An outmost end of the heat dissipating portion defines a plurality of apertures and is located beyond an outmost end of the heat absorbing portion. The heat dissipating portions of the heat sinks are oriented towards each other and define a channel therebetween. The LED modules are mounted at the second surfaces the heat absorbing portions. Heat generated by the LED modules is absorbed by the heat absorbing portions and then transferred to the apertures and the channel via the heat dissipating portions, from where the heat is dissipated to surrounding air.
US07722220B2 Lighting device
First, second and third lighting devices each comprise a thermal conduction element, solid state light emitters and a reflective element. In the second device, the conduction element defines an opening; and the emitters and reflective element are mounted on a first side of the conduction element. In the third device, the conduction element defines an opening; a first portion of a first side of the conduction element is in contact with a contact region of a construction surface; and the emitters and reflective element are mounted on the first side. A fourth device comprises a conduction element and emitters; a first portion of a first side of the conduction element is in contact with a contact region of a construction surface; the emitters are mounted on a second portion of the first side of the conduction element; and a second side of the conduction element is exposed to ambient air.
US07722217B2 Light-emitting diode cluster lamp
The invention relates to a light-emitting diode cluster lamp. The light-emitting diode cluster lamp includes a plurality of light-emitting diode lamp packages, a control circuit, and a casing. Each of the light-emitting diode lamp packages includes a heat-conducting-and-dissipating module and a light-emitting diode module. The control circuit module is used for controlling the light-emitting diode lamp packages. The casing is adapted to accommodate the light-emitting diode lamp packages and the control circuit module. When the light-emitting diode cluster lamp is connected to a power source, the control circuit module selectively makes the light-emitting diode modules emit light. The heat generated during the light emission of each of the light-emitting diode modules is conducted and dissipated by the corresponding heat-conducting-and-dissipating module of each of the light-emitting diode modules.
US07722215B2 360 degree viewable light emitting apparatus
A light emitting apparatus and method of manufacturing thereof are disclosed. The light emitting apparatus includes a plurality of printed circuit boards connected to one another, a light emitting element disposed on and electrically connected to each printed circuit board, and at least one connector disposed between the printed circuit boards. The method of manufacturing the light emitting apparatus includes disposing a light emitting element on a plurality of printed circuit boards, arranging planar surfaces of the plurality of printed circuit boards substantially opposite, and connecting the plurality of printed circuit boards to one another.
US07722212B2 Nightlight for phototherapy
A nightlight provides therapeutic effects on the body and mind including promoting relaxation, sleep and wakefulness. The nightlight includes a light source, a central processor, one or more controls, and a power supply. The light source produces at least three illumination modes including a sleep readiness mode, a sleep help mode and a wake-up mode. The sleep readiness mode produces monochromatic light of various selectable colors at about 40 lumens which may undulate in luminosity. Meanwhile, the wake-up mode produces substantially full spectrum light at higher luminosity. The controls allow a person to control the various light modes including selecting colors, time periods for activation, and transitions between colors during the sleep help mode. Moreover, the nightlight may include biological sensors for measuring physiological activity of the body. The nightlight may be incorporated into a bedside alarm clock which includes numerous features found in a traditional alarm clock.
US07722210B2 Automotive lamp and reflector for low beam and advanced forward lighting system
An advanced forward lighting system may be made with a lamp having a first filament and a second filament extending perpendicular to the first filament. The second filament is partially hidden rearward and above the first filament. A reflector forms a main beam from the first filament light and a right or left cast supplemental beam from the second filament light. The second filament's position minimizes glare, and enables a simple advanced forward lighting system from a single standard lamp fitting both right and left side reflectors.
US07722209B2 Flashlight with selectable output level switching
A flashlight has a lamp, a power source, two switches, and a controller connected to the switches. The first switch controls delivery of power to the lamp, and the second switch selects a dimmed brightness level. The first switch may invoke the dimmed level, or a maximum brightness level. The second switch may be a ring rotatable about the axis the flashlight, and either rotatable through a wide range of positions, with sensor circuitry to detect the absolute position, or having a limited range of rotation, with dimmed level selection provided by a duration of momentary rotation in either direction. The second switch may be positioned outside a leak resistant housing, and may include a magnet detectable by magnetic field sensors within the chamber.
US07722206B2 Utility device with multiple, pivotal non-coplanar tools
A tool assembly primarily for illuminating a work space having a plurality of tools each of which having both a proximal and distal end for providing rotational movement of each of the tools for extension to at least one functional position and a distal end for use of the tool in the work space, and a stored position when not in use; in which one of said tools means is a flashlight means for illuminating at least the work space and at least one other said tools at the proximal end. The assembly further has a gripping, extension and containment portion within the assembly for engaging the tool and for providing pivotal positioning of the tools from the functional position through to the stored position; at least two non-vertically coplanar hinge pins for pivotal engagement of each of the tools from the stored position through the functional position; such that when the tools are pivoted to at least one aligned functional position the tools are substantially parallel and vertically coplanar and when the tools are pivoted to a stored position the tools are substantially contained within the assembly in a parallel, co-vertically planar arrangement by way of recesses in the said gripping, extension and containment portion; the gripping, extension and containment portion further has an arcuately sloped surface means for ergonomic and useful functioning, for wresting the flashlight or a thumb when in use.
US07722205B2 Headgear light
A headgear light comprising a light body removably securable to a headgear. The preferred embodiment of the light includes a mount assembly including a docking base that is removably attachable to a side of a helmet or other headgear, and provides visible light, invisible light, and friend-or-foe light signals. The light body is compact for easy storage and handling, and can be quickly and easily installed on and removed from the headgear with one hand and without visual reference.
US07722203B2 Evacuation station with multiple lightstick activation
A chemiluminescent lightstick evacuation station consisting of a wall mountable fixture that stores a plurality of lightsticks that are accessed by opening the fixture cover. The fixture cover is opened by pivoting from a closed position to an open position wherein a lightstick restraint causes the activation of all stored lightsticks so as to facilitate their removal and use during an emergency. One lightstick may be retained in the device by use of restricted movement housing, and all lightsticks may be made to rotate outwardly for ease of access.
US07722193B2 Light source apparatus for optical projecting system
A light source apparatus for an optical projecting system is disclosed. A light source is disposed on a first optical axis. A second optical axis is perpendicular to the first optical axis. A plurality of light-guiding devices are respectively disposed on the first optical axis, the second optical axis, the first light source or the second light source, for guiding the light emitted by the light sources to the identical direction parallel to the second optical axis.
US07722188B2 Eyeglass frame
An eyeglass frame is formed so as to eliminate pain to a wearer when the frame nips the head of the wearer for a long period of usage. The eyeglass frame includes a front frame made of plastic or metal for holding lenses, a pair of elastic bodies, a first end of each elastic body is attached to either side of a rear face of the front frame and is bent inwardly at a central portion thereof, and a temple disposed at a second end of each elastic body. The temple has an end cover. One of the first end and the second end of the elastic body is connected to a hinge.
US07722187B2 Fly-wing rotating lens eyeglasses
A spectacle frame and lens arrangement whereby each lens rotates up and out of the field of vision by pivoting about a central pivot mechanism in the frame which keeps the lenses within the same plane both in the park and use positions. This differs from traditional flip-up spectacles that operate by causing the lens to fold up and forward from the user's eyes or outward to each side. This is accomplished by a simple squeeze of the frame and lower edge of a single lens between the forefinger and thumb of one hand.
US07722186B2 Personal digital assistant incorporating a printer
Provided is a personal digital assistant. A printer is arranged in a body section. The printer includes a printhead, a motor driver and a media transport device arrangement for transporting print media from a roll of print media past the printhead. A motor driver and guillotine motor arrangement sever the printed print media from the roll of media. A microcontroller controls the printhead and respective motor driver arrangements.
US07722183B2 Image recording apparatus
The image recording apparatus includes a recording head ejecting ink for image recording, a rotatable platen facing the head and has recording medium support surfaces supporting one or more recording media during the image recording, respectively, a driver rotating the platen and a controller controlling the driver so as to rotate the platen in such a way that a predetermined surface selected from the surfaces is stopped at a position facing the recording head. The surfaces support the one or more recording media transported in accordance with different transport patterns, respectively and have ink receivers receiving the ink having reached outside both sides of each of the one or more recording media transported during the image recording and being disposed in positions corresponding to vicinities of both sides of each of the one or more recording media.
US07722180B2 Liquid droplet discharge apparatus including duplex recording medium transport unit
A liquid droplet discharge apparatus includes a conveyor belt that retains and conveys a recording medium, a liquid droplet discharge head that discharges liquid droplets onto the recording medium retained on the conveyor belt, a discharge belt that moves to a recording medium feeding position of the conveyor belt, receives the recording medium, and retains and conveys the recording medium to a discharge port; and an inversion belt that moves to the recording medium feeding position, receives and retains the recording medium, and feeds the recording medium to an inversion path. By disposing the inversion belt, the conveyance direction of the recording medium can be switched without contacting the recording surface of the recording medium, and even when two-sided printing is to be conducted at a high speed, the inversion belt does not become soiled by the liquid droplets adhering to the recording surface of the recording medium.
US07722178B2 Ink-jet head
The passage unit is provided with a through hole that connects the ink ejection face and the support face. The ink supply block is provided with a through hole that connects the bond face and the ink inlet face. The filter film blocks communication between the through hole provided in the passage unit and the through hole provided in the ink supply block.
US07722177B2 System for loading ink sticks configured for lateral anti-skewing
A solid ink stick receiver for a solid ink stick loader is configured to receive solid ink sticks and to orient the solid ink sticks so the skew limiters in a solid ink stick are generally aligned to receive longitudinal guide rails in a feed channel of the loader. The solid ink stick receiver includes a pair of generally upright sidewalls separated by a distance that corresponds to an ink stick body width, and a set down area having at least one bottom support with a top surface that is located at a position that enables at least one skew limiter in a side of the ink stick to be generally aligned with a longitudinal guide rail in a feed channel.
US07722173B2 Fluid container having a fluid absorbing material
A fluid container includes a body having a depth extending between a base interior surface and an opening of the fluid container. The fluid container also includes a capillary material compression structure having an extension depth extending from the opening to a capillary material where the capillary material compression structure is in contact with the capillary material, and the ratio of the extension depth to the depth is 0.35 or greater.
US07722170B2 Ink pressure regulator using air bubbles drawn into headspace
An ink cartridge suitable for regulating a hydrostatic pressure of ink supplied to an inkjet printhead is provided. The cartridge comprises an ink chamber having an ink outlet for fluid communication with the printhead via an ink line; an air inlet open to atmosphere; a bubble outlet for bubbling air bubbles into the chamber, each air bubble comprising an air cavity trapped inside a film or a body of ink; and an air channel connecting the air inlet and the bubble outlet. The bubble outlet is dimensioned to control a Laplace pressure of air bubbles drawn into the chamber as result of supplying ink to the printhead, thereby regulating a hydrostatic pressure of the ink.
US07722169B2 Inkjet printhead with elongate chassis defining ink supply apertures
An inkjet printhead that has an elongate chassis with a first set of apertures, an ink distribution unit for connection to an ink supply, and a plurality of printhead modules supported along the elongate chassis. The ink distribution unit has a plurality of ink distribution passages for connecting the ink supply to a second set of apertures and is supported on the chassis such that the plurality of printhead modules are supplied with ink from the second set of apertures via the first set of apertures.
US07722164B2 Piezoelectric actuator, method of manufacturing the same, and inkjet recording head
A piezoelectric actuator that includes plural individual electrodes each of which includes a driving electrode and a connection terminal disposed at one end of the driving electrode. A maximum difference in height between the connection terminals is 4 μm or less.
US07722161B2 Method of locating printhead on printer
A method of locating a printhead assembly on a printer, the method comprising the steps of: providing a printhead assembly comprising at least one printhead integrated circuit having a plurality of ink ejection nozzles and an ink distribution support mounting the, or each, printhead integrated circuit, the ink distribution support being arranged, in use, to distribute ink from the ink supply to the nozzles; mounting the printhead assembly to the printer by bringing at least one reference feature provided on the ink distribution support into cooperation with a corresponding complementary feature of the printer; and determining from the cooperation the location of the nozzles.
US07722160B2 Nozzle plate, printhead having the same and methods of operating and manufacturing the same
A nozzle plate and printhead allowing for control of a deflection direction of ejected droplets using electro-wetting, and methods of operating and manufacturing the same. The nozzle plate has at least one nozzle for ejecting fluid and includes electrode segments disposed along a circumference of the nozzle, an insulating layer disposed on a surface of each electrode segment so as to contact fluid in the nozzle, the insulating layer divided into at least two insulating layer segments corresponding to the electrode segments, and a wire pattern electrically coupled to the electrode segments.
US07722159B2 Inkjet head and inkjet recording device
There is provided an inkjet head including a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles from which ink is ejected are formed. The nozzle plate has a nozzle surface on which nozzle orifices corresponding to the plurality of nozzles are formed. The nozzle surface has surface roughness Rz in a range from 0.3 to 5 μm formed by a roughening process. The ink has surface tension in a range from 28 to 35 mN/m.
US07722158B2 Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus includes: a conveyance section which conveys a recording medium; a plurality of recording heads each aligned along a conveyance direction of the recording medium, which ejects the same kind of photo-curing type ink onto the recording medium conveyed by the conveyance section; and a plurality of light irradiating sections each aligned along the conveyance direction of the recording medium, which irradiates light onto the recording medium to which the photo-curing type ink has been ejected from each of the plurality of recording heads.
US07722157B2 Ink jet printing method and printer
An ink jet or other printer serves to print for each row of input pixels, two superimposed rows of contiguous “super pixels,” each print pixel being capable of receiving print contributions from N super pixels. The super pixels are twice the width of the input pixels and one row of super pixels is offset by half a super pixel width from the next row of super pixels. Redundancy is thus provided against the loss of a print element. The effects of smoothing or an image are reduced by edge enhancement processes.
US07722154B2 Inkjet recording apparatus
The inkjet recording apparatus includes: an inkjet recording head having a long side extending in a lengthwise direction corresponding to a first movement direction perpendicular to a paper conveyance direction; a wiper blade which wipes a nozzle surface of the inkjet recording head in which a nozzle is formed; a first movement device which moves one of the inkjet recording head and the wiper blade in the first movement direction; and a second movement device which moves the wiper blade in a second movement direction which is substantially perpendicular to the first movement direction, in such a manner that the wiper blade wipes the nozzle surface, wherein the wiper blade is formed in such a manner that ink removing properties of at least one surface of the wiper blade become higher toward a first end section of the wiper blade in the first movement direction.
US07722153B2 Method of cleaning a printhead using cleaning liquid
A method of cleaning an ink ejection face of an inkjet printhead is provided. The method comprises the steps of: (i) supplying cleaning liquid to the printhead via an ink conduit in fluid communication with nozzles in the printhead; and (ii) purging the cleaning liquid from the printhead, thereby flooding the face with cleaning liquid.
US07722152B2 Liquid ejection method and liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection method includes determining, according to image data, an ejection pixel that is a pixel at which a liquid is to be ejected and a non-ejection pixel that is a pixel at which a liquid is not to be ejected; determining, according to the image data, a nozzle requiring flushing; and ejecting liquid from the nozzle requiring flushing to the non-ejection pixel adjacent to the ejection pixel, the non-ejection pixel being among pixels associated with the nozzle requiring flushing.
US07722151B2 Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus is disclosed.
US07722150B2 Image recording apparatus and image recording method
The image recording apparatus includes: a recording device which deposits an image record substance on a recording medium; a recording medium conveyance device which includes a conveyance medium having a recording medium hold region and conveying the recording medium with respect to the recording device in a conveyance direction while holding the recording medium on the recording medium hold region, the recording medium conveyance device being provided with a determination pattern which is formed outside the recording medium hold region on the conveyance medium and follows the conveyance direction; a determination device which determines the determination pattern while the recording medium is held on the conveyance medium; a calculation device which acquires speed variation data of the conveyance medium in accordance with determination results of the determination device; a storage device which stores the speed variation data acquired by the calculation device; and a record timing correction device which corrects record timing of the recording device in accordance with the speed variation data of the conveyance medium stored in the storage device.
US07722147B2 Printing system architecture
Systems and techniques for printing on a workpiece. In one implementation, a print system has a collection of print elements arranged to span a print area, a workpiece conveyor to move a workpiece through the print area, and a detector to detect a position of the workpiece in the print area. The print system also has control electronics to instruct the collection of print elements to print an image on the workpiece substantially immediately when the collection of print elements receive the instruction through an optical communication path.
US07722146B2 Printing system having controlled multi-length printhead ICS
Printing system is provided which has a plurality of printhead integrated circuits of different lengths and a controller configured to supply print data to the printhead integrated circuits. The printhead integrated circuits are arranged to define a pagewidth printhead having rows of nozzles formed by adjacent nozzle rows of the adjacent printhead integrated circuits. The nozzle rows of the printhead are configured so that there is at least one row for printing each ink color of a plurality of ink colors. The controller supplies the print data at a rate which is proportional to a ratio of the different lengths of the printhead integrated circuits.
US07722144B2 Fluid ejection device
A fluid ejection device includes a first fire line adapted to conduct a first energy signal having energy pulses, a second fire line adapted to conduct a second energy signal having energy pulses, a first address generator configured to provide first address signals, a second address generator configured to provide second address signals, first drop generators and second drop generators. The first drop generators are electrically coupled to the first fire line and configured to respond to the first energy signal to eject fluid based on the first address signals. The second drop generators are electrically coupled to the second fire line and configured to respond to the second energy signal to eject fluid based on the second address signals.
US07722141B2 Suspendable locker
The suspendable locker has a plurality of side walls and a top wall interconnected to define an interior space. The suspendable locker has an open bottom leaving the interior space exposed from below. A door is hingedly connected to a side wall to provide an access opening into the interior space along a side at the bottom so a cart can be rolled into and from the interior space. An attachment structure for suspending the locker from a storage cabinet is connected to a side wall. The attachment structure includes a pair of L-shaped flanges connected to an exterior surface of a side wall. The L-shaped flanges engage a lip on a tool storage cabinet, enabling the suspendable locker to be cantilevered from the storage cabinet.
US07722134B2 Failsafe electronic braking system for trains
A method and system for providing true failsafe control of an electronic braking system by a train control system which controls a switch that supplies power to the electronic braking system. When the train control system determines that it is necessary to activate the train's brakes, it controls the switch so as to remove power to the electronic braking system, which results in activation of the train's brakes. In highly preferred embodiments, the switch is of a type that is normally open and that requires the presence of an electrical signal to close the switch to supply power to the electronic braking system. In such embodiments, any loss in power to the train control system will result in a loss of signal to the switch, thereby causing activation of the train's brakes.
US07722131B2 Control component for a spring applied-pressure released hydraulic brake and hydraulic motor
A control for a hydraulic circuit includes a manifold housing and a movable member disposed in the housing. The manifold housing can include a brake port and a pressure port. The brake port is in fluid communication with an associated spring applied-pressure released brake. The pressure port is in fluid communication with an associated pump. The movable member moves between a first operating position and a second operating position when pressure is not being applied to the pressure port. In the first operating position, the movable member is disposed to allow fluid communication between the associated pump and the associated brake. In the second operating position the movable member is disposed to prohibit fluid communication in a first direction from the associated brake toward upstream the associated pump while allowing fluid communication from upstream the associated pump toward the associated brake in a second direction. The manifold housing can also include first and second motor ports. In this embodiment, each motor port is in fluid communication with an associated motor. In the first operating position, the movable member is disposed to prohibit fluid communication between the first motor port and the second motor port. In the second operating position the movable member is disposed to allow fluid communication between the first motor port and the second motor port.
US07722129B2 Bicycle wheel quick release assembly
A quick release assembly for a bicycle wheel that includes a pair of heads disposed at generally opposite ends of a skewer rod. One of the heads includes a cam surface that is translatable relative to the head. The quick release includes an operator having a handle portion and a stem portion. The stem portion includes a cam that cooperates with the cam surface formed in one of the heads such that operation of the handle alters the distance between the heads from a first orientation wherein the heads secure a wheel to a bicycle, a second orientation wherein the heads loosely secure the wheel to the bicycle and a third orientation wherein the wheel assembly can be freely removed from the bicycle.
US07722128B2 Retention system for plastic wheel trim
A lug nut engaging retention for plastic wheel trim includes a plurality of tubular sockets which project axially from the inner face of the wheel trim. Each socket comprises three concentric arcuate lug nut engaging panels. Two of the panels include lips that snap over a peripheral flange of a lug nut, while the third panel is fixed relative to the wheel trim and serves as a centering guide. A circumscribing ring engages the periphery of the panels adjacent their apical ends to reinforce the radially inwardly directed bias of the lipped panels. Three legs are positioned about the socket center at a radius greater than that of the panels. Each leg includes a pair of axially spaced abutments which engage the ring to limit axial movement of the ring relative to the panels.
US07722127B2 Pick shank in axial tension
In one aspect of the present invention, a degradation assembly comprises a holder attached to a driving mechanism and comprises a longitudinal central bore. The bore comprises an opening at a distal end from the driving mechanism. A pick comprising a body intermediate a shank and an impact tip is connected to the holder, the shank being disposed in the central bore of the holder and the body extending from the opening of the bore. A tensioning mechanism is disposed within the bore and is adapted to put the shank in axial tension.
US07722122B2 Portable support including a pillow
A portable support for supporting the head of a seated individual including an elongated pillow and a flexible retention member having fasteners enabling the flexible retention member to assume different loop configurations enabling the portable support to alternatively be connected to an upper seat corner or be supported by the individual.
US07722121B2 Reclining device
A reclining device capable of controlling angles of a seat back of a vehicle is provided. A ratchet plate is superposed on a base plate such that the ratchet plate is rotatable relative to the base plate. An operation shaft is rotatably disposed on the rotation center axis of the ratchet plate. A circular concavity is formed on a surface of the ratchet plate opposed to the base plate around the operation shaft. Inside teeth are provided on an inner circumferential wall surface of the concavity. Pawls having outside teeth on their front end surfaces are disposed on the concavity, and the outside teeth of the pawls engage with and disengaging from the inside teeth in the radial direction of a teeth end circle. Guide projections provided on the base plate slidingly guide the pawls in the radial direction. A cam disposed in a space on the side of rear end surfaces of the pawls is rotatable with the operation shaft. A release plate disposed between the ratchet plate and the components of the pawls and the cam such that the release plate is rotatable with the cam. Projections engaging with cam grooves are provided at the rotation end of the release plate to release engagement between the inside teeth and the outside teeth.
US07722119B1 Chair with a tiltable seat
A chair having a tiltable seat for convenience and safety for elderly, infirm or injured users. The seat is mounted on an axle to allow the seat front edge to tilt downwardly for ingress and egress purposes and for sitting, the seat will tilt downwardly at the seat rear edge. Cantilevered ends on the chair arms assist in gripping and a footrest is attached to the legs of the chair for user convenience.
US07722118B2 Repositionable child support device
An infant glider device is disclosed. The glider includes a base, a carriage that moves in an oscillatory motion along a predetermined path with respect to the base, and seat connected to the carriage. The seat is rotationally repositionable about an axis generally perpendicular to the carriage, and is adapted to be reoriented from a first seat facing position to a second seat facing position, and vice versa.
US07722116B2 Acoustic seat vibratory-bone-conduction type
In a seat, a bass acoustic vibration transmission section and a treble acoustic vibration transmission section are arranged distinctively with respect to a seat occupant, such that those two acoustic vibration transmission sections are disposed independently of each other, thereby achieving both of the following two effects: an acoustic performance worthy of acoustic seat; and a seating comfort essentially required as a seat.A vibration conduction unit is provided, which comprises a combination of: one bass speaker; a support plate to which that one bass speaker is secured; and a network cushion member of three-dimensional structure arranged on an anterior surface of the support plate. Such vibration conduction unit is disposed and accommodated in a cut-out region defined in a seat padding to a predetermined extent of covering an area of seat back which corresponds to a lumbar part of seat occupant, whereas on the other hand, a pair of treble speakers are respectively provided in a pair of local areas of the seat padding which correspond respectively to left-side and right-side shoulder portions of seat back, such that each of those two local areas of seat padding has an opening defined therein, wherein the opening lies anteriorly of an output side of each of the two treble speakers.
US07722108B2 Windshield device
A windshield device for obtaining a favorable screen effect with respect to an air flow from the sides of a screen while suppressing large-sizing of the screen in the vehicle width direction. In a front cowling which includes a screen unit which is mounted on a front portion of a vehicle body and has a screen, an air introducing opening is formed in a front portion of the screen unit and opens forwardly. An air blow-off opening is formed in an upper portion of the screen unit that opens upwardly. An air duct allows the screen unit and the air blow-off opening to communicate with each other. Air discharge ports which open outwardly and to the sides from the vehicle are formed in a side of the air duct.
US07722107B2 Vehicular center cluster panel
A center cluster panel 2 is formed with a projected portion 20 including an upper panel 21 extended to a vehicle rear side and disposed at an uppermost portion thereof, a curved face panel 22 connected to a rear portion of the upper panel 21 and directed to a vehicle front side by being bent from the connected portion 24, and a lower panel 23 connected to the curved face panel 22, extended to a front side and disposed on a vehicle lower side of the upper panel 21. The upper panel 21 and the lower panel 23 are formed such that respective wall thicknesses t1 and t2 are uniform. The wall thickness t1 of the upper panel 21 is made to be thicker than the wall thickness t2 of the lower panel 23. The curved face panel 22 is formed such that a wall thickness t3 thereof is equal to the wall thickness t1 of the upper panel 21 at the portion 24 connected with the upper panel 21 and formed such that the more proximate to the lower panel 23 from the connected portion 24, the more thinned the wall thickness t3 gradually.
US07722102B2 Floating parking brake gap hider
A console housing has a top wall formed with an opening that receives an upwardly extending handle of a parking brake. A gap hider includes a close out insert for closing the gap between the opening and the handle. The close out insert is supported on the top wall for limited floating movement so that it will not interfere with the operation of the parking brake handle.
US07722099B2 Sanitary product disposal
Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for hygienic disposal of a sanitary product. The apparatus comprises a biodegradable bag for disposal of the sanitary product. The biodegradable bag comprises a catch clip, a pull stick, and an adhesive strip. The catch clip, affixed at the closed end of the biodegradable bag, seizes the sanitary product into the biodegradable bag. The pull stick holds the biodegradable bag in a predefined position over the seized sanitary product during inversion of the biodegradable bag over the seized sanitary product. The inverted biodegradable bag with the seized sanitary product is then twisted and sealed airtight using the adhesive strip affixed towards the open end of the biodegradable bag. The biodegradable bag prevents the user from coming in contact with the sanitary product, thereby providing hygienic disposal of the sanitary product.
US07722098B2 Step load bracket
The present invention is a step load bracket having a substantially horizontal portion and a substantially vertical portion connected to the substantially horizontal portion. The present invention also includes at least one support member connected to the substantially vertical portion and the substantially horizontal portion. The support member provides support for a body component of a vehicle having a step, such as a fascia, when a load is applied to the fascia in a vertical direction, but has pre-determined crush characteristics when the fascia suffers from an impact load in a horizontal direction, such as during a rear-end collision.
US07722096B2 Latchbolt for a door lock assembly
A latchbolt configured for use with a door lock assembly. The door lock assembly is configured for interaction with a strike coupled to a door frame, and operable to place the latchbolt in a locked configuration using the strike to generally prevent rotation of the door and an unlocked configuration to allow rotation of the door. The latchbolt includes a first member and a second member movably coupled to the first member. When the latchbolt is in the locked configuration the second member is movable relative to the first member from a first position to a second position in response to a predetermined force applied to the door.
US07722093B2 Fitting
The invention relates to a fitting for connecting lengths of pipe by compression, having a substantially cylindrical internal contour. The fitting has a ridge which is configured in a radially outward direction and in which a sealing element is provided. The fitting is slidable onto the lengths of pipe, the internal contour having a region of non-circular cross-section. The invention also relates to a connecting arrangement for connecting lengths of pipe by compression, comprising a length of pipe and a fitting plus a sealing element which is arranged in the ridge. One axial gap which extends over the entire connecting region is formed between the length of pipe and the internal contour of the fitting in the uncompressed state. Such an axial gap with an open end would ensure that a leak exists even in the region of the sealing element in an uncompressed state.
US07722089B2 Fluid coupling
Fluid coupling for connecting pressurised conduits. The coupling includes a spigot having a first circumferential groove disposed on an outer surface thereof and a socket having a second circumferential groove on an inner surface thereof. The spigot and the socket are adapted for axial engagement whereby the conduits are sealingly connected for fluid communication through the coupling and whereby the circumferential grooves are substantially in radial alignment. A releasable retaining member is moveable between a locked configuration, wherein the retaining member extends radially into both grooves to prevent axial disengagement of the spigot and the socket, and a release configuration wherein the retaining member is disposed substantially within one of the grooves and is substantially clear of the other to permit axial disengagement. The coupling further may include a release mechanism for moving the retaining member from the locked configuration to the release configuration.
US07722083B2 Method and apparatus for delivering barcode-to-dose labels
A labeling apparatus has a source of printed labels that have adhesive backing, a vacuum pickup with two opposable arms, a blower bar to support a label on air. Each opposable arm has its own vacuum head and each head is removably attachable to a respective end portion of the label. The apparatus also has a label position sensor, and the vacuum pickup is movable from a pickup position to a wrap position. Each pickup arm has a plurality of spring loaded pins. A two layer label has a backing strip, an inner layer, and an outer layer, and at least one removable portion of the outer layer. The label has a neck portion and two end portions, such that the label set may be wrapped a container with the two end portions adhered back to back to each other. The neck portion is relatively narrower than either of the two end portions and is relatively offset so that it is closer to a front edge of the label.
US07722080B2 Airbag cushion with a flap vent to optionally vent gas for out-of-position conditions
An airbag cushion is disclosed for use in automotive protective systems. The airbag cushion includes at least one closeable flap vent for re-directing gas out of the cushion when an obstruction is encountered. The airbag cushion also includes a tether for controlling the closeable flap vent.
US07722079B2 Airbag cushion
The present invention relates to an airbag cushion for protecting a driver and passengers when a vehicle crashes, wherein the sliding bent is guided into a belt guider and slides between a deployment portion and the belt guider, when the deployment portion is deployed. The sliding belt slides between the deployment portion and the belt guider in such a manner that before the deployment portion is deployed, the sliding belt clogs the first vent holes, when the deployment portion is partially deployed, the second vent hole forms a flow channel together with the first vent holes so that the gas is discharged along the flow channel through the first vent holes, and when the deployment portion is fully deployed, the sliding belt clogs the first vent holes so that the gas is not discharged through the first vent holes.
US07722074B2 Airbag apparatus
An effective technology is provided to intend an improvement of a deploying capability of an airbag apparatus. In one form, a retainer for housing an airbag of an airbag apparatus upon being folded back is constructed with a retainer body whose upper surface and an entire front surface other than left and right supporting portions at a lower portion are open, and a plastic plate serving as a plate having low rigidity closing an opening portion of the retainer body, and the plastic plate is fixed to an inside of the supporting portions of the retainer body, and a front portion of the retainer is formed to be a bending portion capable of being bent forward around a lower portion thereof as a fulcrum by the plastic plate.
US07722072B2 Rear suspension system for a bicycle
A bicycle may include a rear suspension system to absorb forces impacting on the bicycle by allowing a rear wheel of the bicycle to be displaced relative to the bicycle frame. Upon displacement of the rear wheel, the rear suspension system allows the rear wheel to move from a general first position to a second position, and then acts to return the rear wheel to the general first position. The rear suspension system may be adjusted in some versions to affect the travel path of the rear wheel as well as the leverage ratio curve to suit the rider's preference. The bicycle may include a rear frame coupled with a front frame through first and second pivot translating assemblies, the orientations and/or shapes of which affect the rear wheel path as well as the leverage ratios.
US07722066B2 Vehicle operation assembly
A vehicle operation assembly comprising: stairs including a step; and a vehicle operation system positioned behind the stairs such that the step of the stairs is exposed for use in front of the vehicle operation system, the stairs being adapted to permit access to the vehicle operation system. The vehicle operation system may include a sleeper cab heater, a hydraulic system, a diesel generator, or a fuel supplement system such as a hydrogen generating system.
US07722062B2 Torque reaction control link
A suspension system for a motor vehicle that controls torque reaction comprising a chassis, a rigid drive axle, an opposite axle, a road wheel attached to each end of each axle, at least one torque reaction control link positioned longitudinally of the motor vehicle between the road wheels, at least two longitudinal control arms attached proximate the road wheels, for longitudinal control of the drive axle, so that the at least one torque reaction control link has a longitudinal plane that extends longitudinally of the motor vehicle and whereby the effective projection lines of the at least two longitudinal control arms and the longitudinal plane of the at least one torque reaction control link intersect each other in the direction of the opposite axle, forming a convergent angle and that when a force moves the rigid drive axle vertically up the convergent angle does not increase.
US07722060B1 Truck assembly for wheeled recreational device
A truck assembly is used in a wheeled recreational device including a base plate and hanger. The base plate defines a plurality of mounting holes adapted for receiving respective threaded bolts, and further defines a corresponding plurality of fastener retention regions surrounding respective mounting holes. Each fastener retention region includes point-engaging structure adapted for engaging at least two points of a multi-point threaded nut, such that the point-engaging structure substantially prevents rotation of the threaded nut upon mating attachment of a corresponding threaded bolt. The hanger resides adjacent to the base plate, and includes a wheel axle adapted for carrying at least one wheel of the recreational device.
US07722055B2 Failsafe valve for active roll control
A roll control device includes at least one actuator having first and second chambers. A pump is in fluid communication with the first and second chambers and is configured to transfer fluid between them. A motor is connected to the pump and is in communication with a controller. The controller is configured to selectively command the motor to drive the pump in response to a roll signal and transfer fluid between the first and second chambers in a desired direction. A failsafe valve is arranged between the pump and first and second chambers in one example. The failsafe valve includes a first open position in which the first and second chambers are fluidly connected to one another and bypass the pump.
US07722045B2 Method of playing yangtze hold 'EM# and tibet high# poker games
A method of playing a community card poker game in which two down cards are dealt to each player from a deck having suited cards, non-suited cards and a wild cards, followed by a betting round, then three community cards are dealt face up followed by a betting round, then a fourth community card is dealt face up followed by a betting round and a final card is then dealt followed by a final betting round, a winning hand is then declared and wagers are settled. The winning hand can only contain one wild card and if a player cannot make a hand with only one wild card (because the player has too many wild cards), the player's hand is declared a losing hand. A betting variation is that a losing calling party pays a penalty in some circumstances based upon the ranking of the winning hand.
US07722044B2 Logical board game and game of chance on 6×6 and 5×7 boards
The present invention is directed to a logical board game having a rectangular playing area made up of primary playing fields, the primary playing fields being congruent squares that are in contact with the adjacent primary playing fields on at least two of their sides; furthermore, having two equal, counter-interested sets of pieces of different colors that are designed to look identical to the pieces of traditional chess; and being complete with a computer and/or computer program that makes possible the playing and/or teaching of the game, wherein the fact that one or two further square-shaped primary playing fields are connected to the playing area in such a way that one corner of the newly added primary playing field adjoins the corner of the playing area at a common point, and this additional primary playing field plays a role in the game as necessary.
US07722041B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
Provided is a sheet processing apparatus, including: a stacking unit that is capable of stacking discharged sheets; a drive mechanism that is capable of moving the stacking unit; a storage device that holds data on a moving time of the stacking unit in a rewritable manner; an arithmetic unit that is calculates an estimated value of the moving time of the stacking unit based on the data; and a correcting unit that corrects the data held in the storage device by using an actual measurement value of the moving time of the stacking unit.
US07722039B2 Sheet conveying device and image forming apparatus
A cam unit includes three cams fixed on a common cam shaft for moving a pair of feeding rollers, a pair of lateral registration rollers, and a stopper unit, respectively. A control unit corrects a lateral registration of a sheet whose skew is corrected by the stopper unit, based on a detection result of a detecting unit that detects a position of a side edge of the sheet, while conveying the sheet, controls the rollers not nip the sheet at least during the lateral registration, and controls rotations of the cams according to a length of the sheet.
US07722037B2 Sheet material conveyer system with tension support means
A sheet material conveyer system includes a sheet-transfer conveyer having an endless sheet-transfer belt for conveying sheet materials, a heater provided below the elevation of the endless sheet-transfer belt for heating the sheet materials being carried on the endless sheet-transfer belt to a dry state, an impression belt assembly having an endless impression belt disposed above the endless sheet-transfer belt for guiding movement of the sheet materials with the endless sheet-transfer belt, and tension supports insertable into a conveying space between the endless sheet-transfer belt and the endless impression belt from two opposite lateral sides to support the endless impression belt in shape and to control the tension of the endless impression belt.
US07722034B2 Sheet discharge tray, as well as sheet conveying apparatus, image forming apparatus, and image reading apparatus having the sheet discharge tray
A sheet discharge tray that can improve width direction alignment of discharged sheets of various sizes with a simple structure. Ribs are disposed on a sheet discharge tray. And a space between at least a pair of adjacent ribs among the ribs at a discharging direction upstream end portion is narrower than a space between the at least two adjacent ribs at a discharging direction downstream end portion.
US07722018B2 Rear and/or front axle subframe bearing and method of assembling a rear and/or front axle subframe bearing
A subframe bearing and method of forming same is provided with a subframe (12) having a main section between a first engagement flange (30) and a second engagement flange (32), an inner tube (2), an outer tube (4) and an elastomer bushing (6), as well as a stop plate (16). The elastomer bushing is vulcanized with the inner tube (2) and the outer tube (4) defining a bushing subassembly. The outer tube has a main section (42), an angled transition portion (44) and a step portion (40). The outer tube continues axially from the main section (42) to a stop flange (20). The elastomer bushing (6) has a bulged outer surface portion (36) extending continuously and uninterrupted outwardly of the angled transition portion (44) and extending continuously and uninterrupted outwardly of the step portion (40). The bulge of the bulged outer surface portion is radially outwardly of the subframe main section (12) to form an engaging stop surface in contact with the second radially extending engagement flange (32) and a surface in contact with the stop plate (16).
US07722013B2 Combination double bottom block
The invention relates to a combination double bottom hook block in which two pulley blocks (2, 3) each with a plurality of pulleys are connected to one another by means of a rocker (1), a load hook being mounted in a pivotable manner on the rocker. If use is made here of two lifting cables, each of these lifting cables is led over a pulley block (2, 3) and, in order to achieve the same loading capability if use is made of just one lifting cable, the latter is led, in addition, over a floating pulley (2) which is mounted between the two pulley blocks (2, 3), the two pulley blocks (2, 3) also being secured against tilting.
US07722012B2 Tail section for carpet stretching tool
A tail section for a carpet stretching tool. The carpet stretching tool is the type having a carpet engaging head, an elongate body, a tail section and a lever mechanism allowing extension of the elongate body. The tail section includes a first leg and a second leg, each leg having a wall running face. The legs may be selectively positioned between at least two positions. In one positions the wall running faces form a substantially flat surface allowing use of the tool down a wall section. In a second position the wall running faces on the first and second leg of the tool may be positioned at an angle to allow the tool to be used on corner locations within a room or on a post.
US07722009B2 Electromagnetic valve
An electromagnetic valve for a vehicle gas cylinder, said valve comprising: a valve body; an external thread section of the valve body, that can be screwed into an internal thread on the gas cylinder; a section of the valve body protruding into the gas cylinder; a shut-off piston; and electromagnetic control elements which can be used to displace the shut-off piston from a conducting position into a closed position. The valve body comprises a cavity for receiving the shut-off piston and the control elements, said cavity being located inside the thread section and/or in the section of the valve body protruding into the gas cylinder. In order to simplify the disassembly and assembly of one such valve, the mouth of the cavity is arranged on the head end of the valve body located outside the gas cylinder. The shut-off piston and the electromagnetic control elements can be inserted into the cavity through the mouth thereof.
US07722008B2 Load support apparatus for cabin of heavy equipment
A load support apparatus for a cabin of heavy equipment is capable of overcoming the problems that a vibration absorption apparatus is very efficient for absorbing vibrations transferred from an upper frame to a cabin when heavy equipment runs or does work but is less efficient with respect to the left and right direction vibrations. The load support apparatus of a cabin of heavy equipment comprises a vibration prevention member which is engaged with an outer side of the cabin, a support bracket which is installed on an upper side of the upper frame and receives the vibration prevention member therein, and an elastic member which is installed between an outer side of the vibration prevention member and an inner side of the support bracket and absorbs the left and right direction vibrations which are transferred from the upper frame to the cabin.
US07722005B2 Pedestals
A pedestal comprising a pedestal base whose upper surface defines at least two pairs of open channels. Each pair of open channels is sized and spaced so that a support member of constant cross-section can be slidably fitted into the pair of channels. The pairs of channels are positioned so that, when a straight support member is fitted into each pair of channels, all the support members are parallel to each other and form a platform for supporting objects. The pedestals are particularly useful in the catering and hospitality industry for supporting food and beverage containers, tableware, flower vases and sculptures.
US07722004B2 Scooter holding device
A scooter holding device and method of manufacturing a scooter holding device is disclosed. The scooter holding device has a top end having a first end and a second end, a wheel holding recess positioned at the first end a second wheel holding recess that is transverse to the first wheel holding recess at a second end. The scooter holding device is used to hold and store a scooter when the scooter is not in use.
US07722002B2 Movable extension assembly for a mounting system
An improved system for securing a display device mounting bracket to a surface mounting bracket in a mounting system. A fastener connects to a movable extension component that is movably engaged with the device mounting bracket. When a device mounting bracket has been correctly positioned relative to the surface mounting bracket, the movable extension component is moved until a portion of the surface mounting bracket is positioned between the device mounting bracket and the movable extension component, thereby preventing the device mounting bracket from moving away from the surface mounting bracket.
US07722000B2 Movable support post
A movable support post is attached to a vessel, such as a large planter's pot. Two or more fasteners are employed to attach the post to the vessel. The fasteners extend through the post and extend into the interior of the vessel. A ballast material, such as concrete, is disposed in the vessel and encases the bolts therein. The ballast material acts as an anchor to stabilize the vessel and the attached post. A removable lid or tray is positioned at the top of the vessel. The tray or lid can function as a birdbath or flowerpot, adding a decorative adjunct to the structure.
US07721996B2 Fabrication and installation of preformed dielectric inserts for lightning strike protection
A fabrication method for providing a relatively smooth surface associated with lightning strike protection for composite materials joined with fasteners recessed below the surface is described. The method includes coating at least one of a head of the fastener and a preformed dielectric insert with an adhesive, inserting the preformed dielectric insert into the recess such that the adhesive engages both contours of the recess and the preformed dielectric insert, and removing any excess adhesive from the surface area of the composite material and a top surface of the insert.
US07721993B2 Wire-strike defence system
A wire-strike system (1) including; a wire cutter with at least one pair of electrodes (5, 6), electrically insulated from each other and mounted to an outer surface of an aircraft (2). The electrodes (5, 6) being connectable to a power source (11) capable of generating an electrical potential difference between the electrodes (5, 6) and in the event of a wire-strike, supplying a short-circuit current flow through a portion of the wire connecting both electrodes (5, 6).
US07721992B2 Aircraft floor to fuselage attachment
A floor to fuselage attachment structure incorporates a truss having an upper angled attachment engaging the floor proximate an edge and extending at an angle upward from the floor edge to attach to the fuselage. Additionally, the truss includes a lower angled attachment engaging the floor proximate the edge and extending at an angle downward to attach to the fuselage. The upper and lower angled attachments support the floor with the edge spaced from the fuselage and further have a plurality of apertures for providing airflow between a first volume above the floor and a second volume below the floor.
US07721987B2 Roller clutch
A roller clutch arranged to transmit rotation in only one direction includes an outer ring, an inner ring, a plurality of rollers, a retainer, a cam surface, and a plurality of spring members. The inner ring is disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring. The rollers are disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring in a circumferential direction and are allowed to frictionally engage the outer and inner rings. The retainer includes a plurality of holding portions disposed among the rollers, and shaft portions that protrude from the holding portions toward the rollers. The cam surface is an oblique surface on the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring and arranged to contact the outer peripheral surface of the rollers. The spring members are disposed on the outer peripheral side of the shaft portions and urge the rollers to frictionally engage the cam surface.
US07721984B2 Hay bale flake-separating and flake-dispensing system and device
A chain driven push arm advances a hay bale along a bed toward an opening including a pair of vertically aligned, spaced-apart idle wheels each including plural radiating blades. As the hay bale advances along the bed, the wheels rotate freely causing the blades to impinge on successive regions of the hay bale to separate a succession of flakes from the hay bale remainder. The bed is mounted on a wheeled truck or vehicle that is towable behind a tractor as the tractor driver remotely selectively operates the push arm to dispense flakes along the ground. An optional, towable conveyor can be used to load the bed with a succession of hay bales.
US07721982B2 File shredder with feed unit
A file shredder has an integrated unit for automatic feed of sheets of paper or similar materials. An upper device part contains a cutting mechanism, at least one drive, and a control device. A feed shaft leads from the top of the upper device part, and a secondary channel leads from a chamber-like intake opening disposed on the side, to the cutting mechanism. A hinged lid pivotable about an axis is assigned to the chamber-like intake opening, and the upper device part sits on a lower device part. A barrier is disposed near the front, lower edge of the face surface of the hinged lid, and along this edge. The barrier rests on the top sheet of the stack of sheets laid into the chamber-like intake opening, and removes any objects still adhering to this sheet, particularly staples, when the sheet is drawn in toward the cutting mechanism.
US07721980B1 Method and apparatus for vacuum cooling of viscous mixtures
A method and apparatus for vacuum cooling heated viscous and/or high solids mixtures employs at least one cooling tank (1) having inwardly sloping side walls (15) from a top (14) to an opening that is attached to a outlet pump or valve (7) located at the tank bottom, a rotational spreader (8) near the top and at least one vacuum pump (5, 6) to maintain the predetermined vacuum in the tank, and input and output pumps (20, 21). The rotational spreader (8) breaks up the heated viscous and/or high solids mixture (9) and distributes it onto the side walls of the tank to form a film (10) which is cooled as it travels to and slides down the sides to the bottom where the viscous and/or high solids mixture is outputted from the tank by a pump or valve (7, 21, 26). Multiple stages of the apparatus may be employed preferably with progressively greater vacuum pressure in each stage to accomplish even further cooling of the viscous and/or high solids mixtures.
US07721969B2 Portable handheld device for wireless order entry and real time payment authorization and related methods
A portable handheld device for wireless order entry and real time payment authorization may include a portable housing, a display carried by the housing, an order entry input device carried by the housing, a transaction card input device carried by the housing for reading user sensitive information from a transaction card, a wireless transceiver carried by the housing, and a processor carried by the housing and connected to the display, order entry input device, transaction card input device and wireless transceiver. The processor may be for wirelessly sending input order information, and encrypting and wirelessly sending the user sensitive information from the transaction card without storing and without displaying. The processor may also be for wirelessly receiving and displaying payment authorization information based upon real time authorization from a transaction card issuing entity.
US07721968B2 Concurrent data entry for a portable device
A system and method for entering data on a portable device includes determining a tilt state (tilt sensor 304) as a button (keypad 306) is being pressed. The determined tilt state can be used to disambiguate from among a plurality of characters associated with the pressed button. In a preferred embodiment, the portable device is a mobile phone and the button is part of a standard 12-button keypad.
US07721966B2 System and method of optical reading employing virtual scan lines
Optical reading system and methods having multiple modes of operation, for example: omnidirectional and single-code picking; fixed and handheld reading; 1D and 2D code reading. In one configuration, an image-based system obtains input data via an area sensor (e.g., a 2D COD array) with only data corresponding to a pattern of virtual scan lines being stored and processed. A user may implement different operating modes such as a first mode reading codes in any location or orientation and a second mode reading only a code oriented along a particular virtual scan line or group thereof. Alternately, the data reader is operable to switch between handheld mode selecting a first pattern of virtual scan lines to process and/or decode and a fixed mode selecting a second pattern of virtual scan lines to process and/or decode. Virtual scan patterns in either mode can change from frame to frame.
US07721965B2 Computerized electronic device with bill validating module
A computerized electronic device includes a base, a display pivoted to the base, a sending module fixed to the display for emitting a light beam, a receiving module fixed to the base for receiving the light beam emitted by the sending module passing through a bill to be detected, and a controller for receiving signals from the receiving module and processing the signals to obtain a result therefrom. The computerized electronic device adopts computer-aided devices to complement bill validation. This greatly improves the accuracy and smartness of bill validation.
US07721964B2 Apparatus and method for monitoring moved objects
The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for the sensing of objects moved through the field of view of an optical sensor comprising a device for the selection of regions of interest which are each associated only with a part of the field of view of the optical sensor, wherein a distance measurement device and/or a remission measurement device is/are integrated into the optical sensor or is/are connected in front of it or after it in the direction of movement of the objects, with the distance measurement device and/or the remission measurement device being designed for the determination of the spacing and/or of the remission of the object surfaces facing the distance measurement device and/or the remission measurement device and being coupled to an evaluation circuit for the calculating of the regions of interest in dependence on the determined spacings and/or remissions.
US07721963B2 Method for generating a protective electromagnetic field for a card reading device
The invention describes a device for a self-service terminal which contains a card reading device, for preventing the possibility of data on a card which is to be read by the card reading device 10 being spied-out by means of a spying-out apparatus which is installed in the vicinity of the card reading device 10. The device comprises a protection apparatus 26 for generating a protective electromagnetic field which is suitable for impairing the functioning of the spying-out apparatus. The protection apparatus is controlled by a control unit 24 of the card reading device, which control unit also controls a card transportation apparatus 18 and/or a reading apparatus 20, 22 of the card reading device, such that the protective field is changed during reading of the card in the card reading device 10 such that it is ensured that reading of the card in the card reading device 10 is not impaired.
US07721962B2 Removable memory card bridge
A memory card reader system includes bridges interposed between a memory card of a certain type and a memory card reader receiver which is them same for all receivers. The bridge may have the same or different contact patterns of a standard of a type of memory card and is readily removable and replaceable in order to change the type of memory card that may be used with that connector of the reader. A face plate prevents removal of a bridge until the face plate is moved from a normal position.
US07721961B2 Method of maintaining product item status using coded interface
A method of maintaining a status of a product item is provided. The product item includes an associated interface surface which has coded data including a plurality of coded data portions indicative of the product item's identity. The method includes, in a sensing device, sensing at least one coded data portion, generating indicating data indicative of the product item identity therefrom, and transferring the indicating data to a computer system. The computer system is responsive to the indicating data to update product status information stored in a data store. Each coded data portion is indicative of the respective position. The method further includes, generating in the sensing device and using the sensed coded data portion, indicating data indicative of at least one of a position of the sensed coded data portion on the interface surface and a position of the sensing device relative to the interface surface.
US07721960B2 Transaction instrument inventory management system and method
A system and method for facilitating inventory management in financial transaction instrument distribution is disclosed. The method may include the steps of: receiving information related to the sale of a first transaction instrument, wherein the first transaction instrument is associated with a second transaction instrument, wherein the first and second transaction instruments comprise a group of transaction instruments, and wherein the information identifies a location of the sale of the first transaction instrument; and associating the location of the sale of the first transaction instrument with the second transaction instrument and/or the group of transaction instruments.
US07721956B2 Foldable transaction card systems
A transaction card system comprising a foldable transaction card and a foldable housing is disclosed. The foldable transaction card has a folded state and an unfolded state. The foldable housing for housing the foldable transaction card when the foldable transaction card is in a folded state, wherein the foldable housing further comprises a hinge for folding and closing the housing, wherein the second section of the foldable transaction card unfolds outside the housing when the housing is opened.
US07721955B2 Secure transaction method and transaction terminal for use in implementing such method
A secure transaction method is provided for publicly-accessible transaction terminals. The method uses quantum key distribution (QKD) between a hand-portable QKD device and a complimentary QKD apparatus incorporated the transaction terminal. After the QKD device has been brought up to the transaction terminal, the QKD device and the complimentary QKD apparatus of the terminal are is used to provide the device and terminal with new secret shared random material. The new secret shared random material is then used to establish a secure classical communication channel between the device and transaction terminal for conducting a transaction. An ATM terminal and POS terminal that use quantum key distribution are also disclosed.
US07721954B1 Combination wallet and multi-account ledger balancing system for monitoring a user's spending habits in real-time
A combination wallet and real-time account management system for monitoring a user's spending habits includes monolithically formed first and second sections adaptable between open and closed positions. The system further includes a mechanism for detecting the presence of a credit card and an audible mechanism for notifying a user when a credit card is removed from the wallet and not replaced within a predetermined time interval. An electronic mechanism for performing mathematical calculations is integrally situated within the wallet and non-removable therefrom. The first section includes a plurality of pockets sized and shaped for receiving and storing credit cards. Such pockets are spaced along the first section of the wallet. The second section includes a plurality of pockets sized and shaped for receiving and storing paper money and a personal checkbook.
US07721950B1 Automated transaction machine
An ATM apparatus includes a sheet storage container selectively positionable within the secure chest portion of the ATM. A monitoring mechanism provides audible feedback when the sheet storage container is moved into an operational position. The sheet storage container can be a free-fall container or a stacking cassette.
US07721949B2 Check accepting and cash dispensing automated banking machine system and method
An automated banking machine system and methods includes ATMs which accepts checks and dispense cash to users. The ATMs are operated to acquire image and magnetic data from deposited checks to determine the genuineness of checks and the authority of a user to receive cash for such checks. Cash may dispensed to the user from the ATM in exchange for the deposited check. The ATMs dispense cash responsive to communications with a transaction host.
US07721948B1 Method and system for online payments
Methods and systems are disclosed which relate to online payments via interface surfaces printed with information and coded data. The coded data, encoded visibly or invisibly, may be queried by an appropriate sensing device. The sensing device communicates with a computer system. Together, the interface surfaces, sensing device and computer system are capable of effecting payment transactions over a network.
US07721930B2 Disposable cartridge with adhesive for use with a stapling device
A surgical stapling device is provided for clamping and stapling tissue, and for dispensing a fluid such as an adhesive onto the tissue. The adhesive can be stored within one or more rigid chambers within removable cartridge and dispensed from a plurality of passageways within the cartridge. A plurality of staples and staple drivers are located in the cartridge and may be isolated from the fluid. Both linear and rotary members can be provided to dispense the fluid from the cartridge. Alternately, the fluid can be dispensed from the cartridge at any time with an operator actuatable control. A removable staple cartridge cover can be provided to seal the fluid in the cartridge and prevent fluid loss. Alternately, a fluid cartridge can be provided that can mount within a surgical stapling device and dispense one or more firings of a fluid therefrom.
US07721918B1 Automatic dispensing cap for squeezable bottle
The non-vented automatic dispensing cap is generally formed of a body and a retainer cap. The body is threadably secured to a squeezable tube or container. The retainer cap is attached to the body. A pressure chamber is formed between the body and retainer cap. A piston may also form a wall of the pressure chamber. A coil spring or resilient flange holds a valve seated within a dispensing hole extending through the cap. When the tube is squeezed, the product is forced into the pressure chamber expanding the pressure chamber and unseating the valve, thereby allowing product to exit the dispensing opening. Upright, inverted, vented and unvented versions are disclosed.
US07721913B2 Dispenser for repositionable notes
A dispenser for a pad of repositionable notes is provided. The dispenser includes (a) a base having opposing interior and exterior surfaces; (b) a cover having opposing interior and exterior surfaces and two slots disposed substantially orthogonal to one another, the slots being sized to allow for dispensing individual repositionable notes from the pad, the cover disposed on the base forming a cavity; and (c) a biasing mechanism disposed in the cavity.
US07721910B2 Paint tray and method for manufacture
A preformed paint tray with peelable liners is made from a planar tray substrate with upper and lower surfaces and a plurality of stacked liner sheets with peelable adhesive on one surface by positioning the liner sheets adjacent a surface of the substrate, and simultaneously thermoforming the substrate and sheets together to form a substrate having a shaped interior, with the sheets conforming to the shaped interior of the substrate. The sheets are maintained in the thermoformed shape by their adherence to the other sheets and the substrate. If desired, the sheets can include tear tabs to facilitate separation of the top sheet from the other sheets. The tray can be cleaned of residual paint after use by simply peeling away the upper liner sheet.
US07721906B2 Easy open can end with high pressure venting
An improved convenience closure that is adapted for sealing an end of a can includes an end panel having a peripheral score, a rivet formation, a mustache score and a flex line score defined therein. The mustache score may include a central portion that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel relative to the rivet formation. The central portion is preferably curved, with a concave side of the curvature facing the rivet formation. The mustache score also may include first and second preferably symmetrical end portions, each of which is continuous with the central portion. Most of the total length of each of the end portions may be curved away from a nearest portion of the peripheral score, with a convex side of curvature facing the nearest portion of the peripheral score. Tooling for making the convenience closure and a method of making such a convenience disclosure are also disclosed.
US07721903B2 Overflow drainage system for floating roof storage tank
A drain cover assembly for sealing a drain pipe that extends vertically from the top surface of the deck of a floating roof on a liquid storage tank includes a circular cover and at least two buoyant members, or pontoons, secured to the underside of the cover for imparting a buoyant force to raise the cover upon the accumulation of excess water on the deck. The pontoons are spaced apart from each other to allow water to pass between them and into the drainpipe.
US07721902B2 Fuel anti-siphon device
The anti-siphon device prevents a hose or siphon tube from being inserted into the fuel inlet line for a fuel tank of a vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer. The anti-siphon device includes a tube with cams which are moveable from a retracted position to an extended position via a camming sleeve inserted into the tube. The cams are extended into contact with the inside surface of the fuel tank inlet line and preclude removal of the anti-siphon device from the inlet line. The device further includes flighting which prevents a siphon hose from being inserted through the tube into the fuel tank of the vehicle. Holes are provided in the tube of the device to allow fuel to flow freely into the tank during filling. The fuel also passes through the central opening of the camming sleeve, and through a central opening in the flighting for passage out of the bottom of the tube.
US07721896B2 Screen separators
Apparatus is provided, in or for a screen separator for sieving materials, for clamping one or more sieve screen frames within the confines of a chassis of the separator to prevent egress of material from the separator. The apparatus comprises a sheath extending around and embracing the chassis and one or more expandable elements for urging the sheath against the chassis and the screen frame(s) to impart uniform clamping pressure to the clamped elements. The sheath is designed to provide ease of mounting and release.
US07721895B2 Screening device for wet screening of paper fiber suspensions
A screening device for the wet screening of a paper fiber suspension comprising at least one screen plate having a plurality of screen openings, a support structure being detachably attachable to the screen plate, a rotor movable adjacent the screen plate and an outlet opening for a portion of the paper fiber suspension passing the screen openings The support structure of the device is characterized by an outer support ring and an inner support ring and at least one middle support element arranged radially between the inner and outer support rings to support the at least one screen plate. Elastic pre-stressing against the screen plate is generated, and as a result of the elastic pre-stressing, the screen plate exerts compressive forces on at least one radially intermediate support element and respectively exerts tensile forces both on the inner support ring and on the outer support ring.
US07721893B2 Multi-functional storage apparatus
A multi-functional storage apparatus for selectively supporting a capturing device includes a main casing having a receiving cavity and a supporting arrangement. The supporting arrangement is provided on the main casing to operate the main casing between a normal storing mode and an capturing mode, wherein in the normal storing mode, the supporting arrangement is arranged to rest on the main casing so as to allow the main casing to function as a portable carrying device through storing objects within the receiving cavity, wherein in the capturing mode, the supporting arrangement is selectively extended from the main casing to detachably attach to the image capturing device, in such a manner that the image capturing device is securely and suspendedly supported by the main casing as a supporting base for stably capturing image in a predetermined direction.
US07721891B2 Nest and stacked containers
A nest and stack container system is provided. The system comprises a plurality of containers in various sizes, allowing the stacking of smaller sized containers on a larger sized container. Alternatively, the large container may be stacked on at least two adjacently-arranged small containers. The inventive nest and stack containers allow flexible handling of various sizes of storage containers. Individual containers can be stacked and nested among each other, and in combination, stacks of containers can be formed in any desired sequence of large and small containers, with individual containers each being placed in a slip-proof manner on top of another container.
US07721889B2 Beveled corner carton with interlocking separator pad
A carton with bevel corners for carrying cans, or other articles, which has an interlocking separator pad so the cans or articles can be contained in two layers is provided. The carton has two ends, each of which is closed by two side end closures and top and bottom end flaps. Each side end closure has an aperture that is interlocked with the end portion of an interlocking separator pad. In one embodiment of this invention, the interlocking separator pad has two tabs with the aperture in each side end closure being a slot through which a tab is extended. This pad may have a foldably attached leading flap that is lodged between cans or articles contained in the carton and the side end closures. In another embodiment of this invention, the aperture in each side end closure is a slit with the interlocking separator pad having a leading flap which extends through the slits on the side end closures on an end of the carton and folded up or down and lodged between the side end closures and the top end flap or bottom end flap. The interlocking of the separator pad with the apertures in the side end closures prevents the pad from shifting as cans are removed from the carton. Both of these embodiments may have a dispenser in the side panel for the removal of cans or articles inside.
US07721887B2 Package for consumable products with separately sealed compartments
A package for consumable products is disclosed. The package includes a plurality of subpackages connected together by a connecting member. For instance, the package may contain two subpackages or alternatively four subpackages all connected at one end to a connecting member. The package is particularly well suited to holding relatively large quantities of the consumable product. Because the subpackages are connected at one end, the package may be draped over an adjacent structure, such as a shopping cart. In this way, the package can be placed in a shopping cart without taking up an excessive amount of space.
US07721883B2 Disk protective enclosure
A holder for a disk having a central opening and front and back surfaces includes a base having a planar panel and a forwardly projecting pedestal including a ring for supporting the disk, an inwardly extending disk member, a plurality of stem members for engaging the disk opening, and a corresponding plurality of U-shaped connector segments supporting the stem members in cantilevered relation to the disk member. Alternating ones of the stem members have outwardly projecting retainer members and inwardly projecting tab members, collectively forming a button surface for receiving downward pressure whereby the disk is releasable. Deformation of the pedestal in response to the downward pressure is concentrated in the connector segments and, to a limited extent, an innermost portion of the disk member, providing improved structural integrity for a given downward force required to release the disk.
US07721875B2 Power drive unit with eccentric roller lift system
A cargo power drive unit (PDU) includes a housing, and a shaft rotatably mounted in the housing. The shaft has a longitudinal axis, an end, and a spindle outwardly extending from the end. The spindle is radially offset from the longitudinal axis. The PDU further includes a lift roller having a center axis, and having an opening that is radially offset from the center axis. The spindle is non-rotatably received in the opening of the lift roller. When the shaft rotates in the housing and the lift roller contacts a stationary support beneath the housing, at least a portion of the housing is lifted away from the stationary support by the roller.
US07721873B2 Chain link for a circulating transport of a machine tool, and double end tenoner with guide chain formed from said chain links
The present invention discloses chain links for the circulating transport chain of a machine tool, which comprise: a pair of rollers which determine the direction of circulation of the chain link by way of the direction in which they roll, over the rollers which is or are placed at a distance from the pair of rollers in the direction of circulation of the chain link and draw a plane as they roll against the roller pair; and a transverse guide, guiding the chain link transverse to its direction of circulation and is either free from rollers transverse to the direction of circulation of the chain link between the pair of rollers or has a transverse guide roller.
US07721867B2 Rotation output device
The present invention has an object of providing a rotation output device, including a lock mechanism employing a movable lock member so as to define the lock position, which is capable of, when the operator operates an output shaft to pivot, preventing the movable lock member from being concomitantly rotated with the output shaft and thus providing a locking function with certainty. The rotation output device according to the present invention includes, between the lock gears 35 and the lock ring 33, a carry plate 37 for retaining the positions of the lock gears 35 in the rotation direction when receiving a rotation force from the center ring 32. Thus, the lock ring 33 which is rotational-fixed is used as a member for preventing the concomitant rotation of the lock gears 35.
US07721864B2 Rotational coupling device with sealed key
A fluid actuated rotational coupling device is provided with improved sealing of fluid passages. The device includes a fluid actuated rotational coupling that is disposed on a rotatable shaft. The coupling defines a fluid port. A key is received within a keyway in the coupling and/or shaft and defines a fluid passage extending therethrough having fluid ports at either end aligned with the fluid port in the coupling and a fluid port in the shaft. The key also defines grooves formed in surfaces of the key and surrounding the fluid ports. Seals are disposed within the grooves in the key. By locating the fluid passage and seals in the key, the seals may be removed and replaced without removing the coupling from the shaft. Further, the seals are less likely to be damaged during installation of the coupling device on the shaft.
US07721862B2 Power transmitting apparatus
A power transmitting apparatus can comprise a clutch housing, a plurality of driving clutch plates, a plurality of driven clutch plates movable for carrying out the pressure-contact or release relative to the driving clutch plates, a clutch member, a pressure member, pressure-contact assisting cam, back-torque limiting cam characterized in that one set of cam surfaces of the pressure-contact assisting cam or the back-torque limiting cam are arranged so that they extend along a circumferential edge of the clutch member. A crowning can be formed on one set of cam surfaces in their extending direction and/or their width direction.
US07721858B2 Clutch actuator, engine unit, and saddle type vehicle
A clutch actuator comprises a motor having a motor shaft. A worm shaft is formed with a threaded section. A worm wheel meshes with the threaded section of the worm shaft. An output rod reciprocates in an axial direction to disengage and engage a clutch. A crank shaft converts rotational motion of the worm wheel to reciprocating motion of the output rod. The motor shaft and the worm shaft are coupled by a spline connection.
US07721856B2 Vibration damper having an amplitude-selective damping device
A vibration damper having a sensitive response behavior at very low amplitudes comprises a separating piston being disposed inside a bypass so as to move axially freely. The separating piston divides the bypass into two chambers mutually sealed from one another. Two valves are disposed in the bypass. The first valve acts in a compression stage as a pressure limiting valve and as a non return valve in an extension stage. The second valve acts as a pressure limiting valve in the extension stage and as a non return valve in the compression stage.
US07721850B2 Permanently-installed wheel chair lift with height control
A height control mechanism for a lift device includes an elongated rail and an actuator slidingly mounted thereto. The actuator is biased toward a first end of the rail, and a proximity sensor is mounted proximate the second end of the rail. A cable pulls the actuator toward the second end of the rail as the lift device is elevated. When the proximity sensor detects the presence of the actuator, a signal is generated to halt further elevation. The position of the proximity sensor along the rail can be adjusted to set the maximum height of the lift device. A second proximity sensor, responsive to the presence of the actuator, can also be secured to the rail to generate a signal indicating that the lift device has been elevated off of the ground by a short distance.
US07721849B2 Retractable ladder
A retractable ladder for a motorhome or trailer includes pivoting mounting apparatus providing total support for a ladder and climber in an open position. The apparatus includes brackets which mount on the side of the motorhome or trailer and arms which pivot in the brackets. The brackets mount to the sides of the motorhome or trailer only and therefore do not compromise the roof of the motorhome or trailer. The ladder attaches to the ends of the arms. The brackets include flanges which the arms rest against in the open position and pins for retaining the arms in the open position, thereby eliminating any need for the ladder to be supported by the ground. The pins may further be inserted through the brackets to retain the ladder in a closed position. Backing plates or the like may be provided behind the motorhome or trailer body to securely attach the brackets.
US07721845B2 Exhaust muffler
In order to provide an exhaust muffler for an internal combustion engine, especially a portable implement, comprising a catalyst which is arranged in a housing which has at least one inlet opening and one outlet opening for exhaust gas flowing out from the internal combustion engine into the environment, in which the temperature of the exhaust gas in the area of the outlet into the environment is reduced substantially and/or a sufficiently long path length is made available so that flame development can be avoided especially in the outlet area of the exhaust muffler, it is proposed that the outlet opening has at least one means through which exhaust gas flows, which is arranged partially outside the housing and has an outlet facing the environment, whereby the flow path of the exhaust gas in the direction of the environment is lengthened.
US07721842B2 Articulated work vehicle steering system with controlled steering cushioning and associated method
A steering system is provided for a work vehicle comprising articulated first and second vehicle sections. The steering system comprises a controller adapted to: determine from a speed-request signal if a requested steering speed requested for the first vehicle section relative to the second vehicle section about an articulation axis toward an end of an end region of a position range of the first vehicle section is at least a predetermined steering speed; determine from a position signal if the first vehicle section is positioned in the end region of the position range; and, if the requested steering speed is at least the predetermined steering speed and the first vehicle section is positioned in the end region, signal that an actual steering speed of the first vehicle section be lower than the requested steering speed. An associated method is disclosed.
US07721838B2 Collision obstacle discrimination device for vehicle
A collision obstacle discrimination device for a vehicle has at least one upper detection unit arranged between a bumper and side members and at least one lower detection unit disposed at a lower side of the upper detection unit. The upper detection unit detects at least a component of a side-member extension direction of a collision energy when an obstacle collides with the bumper. The lower detection unit detects a collision energy which is closer to the ground than the component of the side-member extension direction of the collision energy detected by the upper detection unit. A discrimination unit is further provided to sort-distinguish the obstacle by comparing the collision energy detected by the upper detection unit and that detected by the lower detection unit.
US07721832B2 Walking beam suspension
The invention relates to a vehicle suspension system. There is a need for a stable walking beam suspension system where the beam can oscillate and move vertically. Such a suspension system includes a support fixed to the vehicle frame and having first and second ends. A swing arm has a first end pivotally coupled to the first end of the support via a pair of spaced apart pivot pins. Air bags are coupled between the frame and the second end of the swing arm. A walking beam has opposite ends coupled to left and right wheel support assemblies. The walking beam is pivotally coupled to the swing arm. A damping cylinder is coupled between the frame and the second end of the swing arm. Resilient bumper members are engagable with the walking beam and are mounted on an end of the swing arm and fixed to an end of the support.
US07721831B2 Construction machinery and pivoting device
A construction machine (1) with a machine frame (2) and lifting columns (8) carrying crawler track units (4). The lifting columns (8) include consoles (10) coupled in pairs to the machine frame (2) by articulations (20, 22, 24, 26) and a coupling rod (18). The mutual distance of the articulations (20, 24; 22, 26) on a console (10) is of a length and/or the coupling rod (18) is of a shape that, when the crawler track units (4) swivel between limit positions of a swivel gear (14), the coupling rod (18) maintains a distance to the articulations (20, 22) facing the machine frame and/or to the lifting columns (8) over a swivelling angle range in excess of 90°, starting from the working position. The swivel gear (14) effects both the steering and the swivelling movements respectively in and from a transport position (5) to the working position and back.
US07721829B2 Traveling robot
A traveling robot includes a main body frame having a front wheel supported in a front portion thereof in a traveling direction, a first traveling part having a first driving wheel to drive in the traveling direction, a first rear wheel disposed in a rear side of the first driving wheel, and a first wheel frame to support the first driving wheel and the first rear wheel, a second traveling part having a second driving wheel to drive in the traveling direction independently from the first driving wheel, a second rear wheel disposed in a rear side of the second driving wheel, and a second wheel frame to support the second driving wheel and the second rear wheel, a first interlocking hinge part to rotatably support the first wheel frame to the main body frame to have a hinge axis of a perpendicular direction with respect to the traveling direction, and a second interlocking hinge part to rotatably support the second wheel frame to the main body frame independently from the first interlocking hinge part to have a hinge axis of the same direction as the first interlocking hinge part.
US07721828B2 Steering adjustment screw retainer
A retaining strip arranged to impede the rotation of a stop screw is disclosed. The retaining strip connects with the stop screw on both sides of an attachment bracket. The retaining strip is stretched over the bracket and applies a pressure to the screw that serves to maintain screw rotational position during vehicle operation. The retaining strip does not hamper the adjustment of the screw during adjustment.
US07721826B2 Downhole jack assembly sensor
In one aspect of the invention, a drill string comprises a drill bit with a body intermediate a shank and a working face, and the working face comprises at least one cutting element. A jack assembly is disposed within the drill bit body and comprises a jack element disposed on a distal end of the assembly. The jack element substantially protrudes from the working face and is adapted to move with respect to the bit body. At least one position feedback sensor is disposed proximate the jack assembly and is adapted to detect a position and/or orientation of the jack element.
US07721822B2 Control systems and methods for real-time downhole pressure management (ECD control)
Methods and control systems are provided for a wellbore drilling system having an active differential pressure device (APD device) in fluid communication with a returning fluid. The APD Device creates a differential pressure across the device, which reduces the pressure below or downhole of the device. In embodiments, a control unit controls the APD Device in real time via a data transmission system. In one arrangement, the data transmission system includes data links formed by conductors associated with the drill string. The conductors, which may include electrical wires and/or fiber optic bundles, couple the control unit to the APD Device and other downhole tools such as sensors. In other arrangements, the data link can include data transmission stations that use acoustic, EM, and/or RF signals to transfer data. In still other embodiments, a mud pulse telemetry system can be used in transfer data and command signals.
US07721819B2 Rotary hammer
A rotary hammer includes a housing, a tool holder mounted on a front portion of the housing, and a motor mounted in the housing. The motor includes an armature shaft arranged substantially perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the tool holder and including toothing. A hammer mechanism is driven by the motor to generate impacts on a tool being held by the tool holder. The hammer mechanism includes a first intermediate shaft adjacent and substantially parallel to the armature shaft facing away from the tool holder. A rotation drive mechanism is driven by the motor to rotatingly drive a tool being held by the tool holder. The rotation drive mechanism includes a second intermediate shaft adjacent and substantially parallel to the armature shaft facing the tool holder. The toothing of the armature shaft meshes with corresponding toothing on at least one of the first intermediate shaft and the second intermediate shaft. A chain drive couples the first intermediate shaft to the second intermediate shaft so that the first and second intermediate shafts are driven together by the armature shaft.
US07721817B2 Fastener driving device with adjustable shoe
A fastener driving device includes a housing containing an engine for driving a fastener through a flooring board and into a sub-floor, a nosepiece through which fasteners are driven, a magazine for supplying a plurality of fasteners for the engine to drive, and a shoe mounted for movement relative to the nosepiece. The shoe locates the engine relative to the flooring board so that the fastener is driven into the flooring board at an angle. The shoe includes a bottom workpiece engaging surface for engaging a top surface of the flooring board, and the nosepiece includes a forward workpiece engaging surface for engaging a front surface of the flooring board. The forward surface extends a distance below the bottom surface. One of the bottom surface and the forward surface is movable with respect to the other to adjust the distance that the forward surface extends below the bottom surface.
US07721816B1 Drilling/bolting machine having a manual operator input device with enable switch and related methods
This invention relates to the control of a machine for performing drilling or bolting operation, such as in an underground mine. In one aspect, the invention comprises a system including an input device for manually controlling at least one aspect of the drilling or bolting operation and a controller associated with at least one neutral switch. An actuator actuates the drilling or bolting operation and includes a valve associated with the input device and the neutral switch. The input device is operative for controlling the drilling or bolting operation only when the valve is in a neutral position according to the neutral switch. Related input devices and methods are also disclosed.
US07721814B2 Method and apparatus for harvesting and picking up sod
A sod harvester cuts several side-by-side strips of sod, preferably of total width equal to the width of a pallet, and directs the strips up three sets of conveyors arranged in sequence. The first conveyor set runs at or near ground speed; the second conveyor set runs at about double ground speed, and the third conveyor set runs at about triple ground speed. This creates a spatial and time gap between the trailing edges of a set of sod strips on the third conveyor and the leading edges of the next set of sod strips behind them on the second conveyor. The time gap is sufficient to stop the sod strips on the third conveyor and then pick them up and stack them on a pallet.
US07721813B2 Implement/hitch draft control using hitch cylinder pressure as load feedback
A draft load control system for a primary motive power source that uses hitch cylinder pressure to provide input to the control system of the draft load on the power source caused by a hitch-connected or a towed, ground-engaging implement.
US07721811B2 High velocity low pressure emitter
An emitter for atomizing and discharging a liquid entrained in a gas stream is disclosed. The emitter has a nozzle with an outlet facing a deflector surface. The nozzle discharges a gas jet against the deflector surface. The emitter has a duct with an exit orifice adjacent to the nozzle outlet. Liquid is discharged from the orifice and is entrained in the gas jet where it is atomized. A method of operating the emitter is also disclosed. The method includes establishing a first shock front between the outlet and the deflector surface, a second shock front proximate to the deflector surface, and a plurality of shock diamonds in a liquid-gas stream discharged from the emitter.
US07721805B2 Method and apparatus to hydraulically bypass a well tool
Apparatuses and methods to communicate with a zone below a subsurface safety valve (104, 204, 404) independent of the position of a closure member (106) of the safety valve. The apparatuses and methods include deploying a subsurface safety valve (104, 204, 404) to a profile located within a string of production tubing. The subsurface safety valve (104, 204, 404) is in communication with a surface station through an injection conduit (150,152; 250,252; 450; 452) and includes a bypass pathway (144, 244, 444) to inject various fluids to a zone below. A redundant control to actuate subsurface safety valve (104, 204, 404) can include a three-way valve (180, 280) or three-way manifold 480 connecting the injection conduit (150,152; 250,252; 452) or the hydraulic ports (140,142; 240,242; 442′) to the subsurface safety valve (104, 204, 404).
US07721803B2 Nano-sized particle-coated proppants for formation fines fixation in proppant packs
A fracturing fluid, gravel pack fluid and/or frac pack fluid containing particles such as proppants, gravel and/or sand, may contain an effective amount of a nano-sized particulate additive to fixate or reduce fines migration, where the particulate additive is an alkaline earth metal oxide, alkaline earth metal hydroxide, alkali metal oxides, alkali metal hydroxides, transition metal oxides, transition metal hydroxides, post-transition metal oxides, post-transition metal hydroxides piezoelectric crystals and pyroelectric crystals. The nano-sized particulate additive is bound to the particles with a coating agent such as an oil. The particle size of the magnesium oxide or other agent may be nanometer scale, which scale may provide unique particle charges that help fixate the formation fines. The carrier fluid used in the treating fluid may be aqueous, brine, alcoholic or hydrocarbon-based.
US07721798B2 Wireline entry sub
A wireline entry sub includes a body for connection with a wellbore string of tubulars. An opening on the body extends a depth from a body outer surface to at least the longitudinal center axis. A wireline passage extends though the body from the opening to a lower end. A wireline pulling device is mounted on the sub body to apply pulling force to a wireline. The wireline pulling device ma be driven by a motor mounted on the wireline cut sub or by a to drive of a drilling rig.
US07721797B2 Refrigerator-oven combination for an aircraft galley food service system
A refrigerator-oven combination for an aircraft galley food service system includes a housing with a thermally insulated compartment, a heating device for heating the compartment in a heating mode, and a refrigeration device for cooling the compartment in a refrigeration mode.
US07721794B2 Fin structure for heat exchanger
The invention involves a flat fin heat exchanger configuration 10 with a plurality of louvers 26 that are raised above the plane of the fin 16 between adjacent tube holes 19, 20 that receive tubes 14. Various alternative patterns of louvers enhance the heat transfer characteristics of the fin, and allow for the use of thinner materials to lower cost without diminishing performance. The exterior fin surface redirects air flow from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the fin. This effect directs the air flow over and in between the interrupted surfaces, thus breaking up air boundary layer around the fin. The louvers of the fin are oriented relative to the air flow in such a manner that each louver in effect creates another leading edge, thus contributing to a higher heat transfer coefficient.
US07721793B2 Vapor-lift pump heat transport apparatus
A vapor-lift pump heat transport apparatus having a small heat resistance and a large heat transport capacity. A heat exchange circulating solution container has a first space and a second space communicating with the first space through a communication opening and contains a heat exchange circulating solution, and vapor thereof, in each space. A circulating solution transport passage includes a pipe connected to the solution outlet of the container and provided with a sensible heat releasing heat exchanger, a pipe disposed in the container, and a pipe connected to a vapor-liquid two-phase fluid inlet and provided with a heating heat exchanger. A vapor-liquid two-phase fluid flows into only the first space through the vapor-liquid two-phase fluid inlet. When the entrance of the vapor-liquid two-phase fluid has caused a pressure difference between the first and second spaces, a difference occurs between the positions of the vapor-liquid interfaces in the first and second spaces.
US07721792B2 Exhaust gas heat exchanger
The invention relates to an exhaust gas heat exchanger comprising a bundle of pipes which consists of exhaust gas pipes and a bypass channel, and a housing which can be cross-flown by an aqueous cooling agent. The bundle of pipes and the bypass channel joins in a common exhaust gas inlet, wherein an exhaust gas valve is arranged for controlling the exhaust gas flow through the bundle of pipes or the bypass channel. According to the invention, the bypass channel is embodied as a special steel tube (10) comprising a covering (11) which is made of a high-temperature resistant plastic and wherein the housing, which can be cross-flown by the cooling agent, is arranged.
US07721786B2 Casting nozzle
A casting nozzle for supplying a molten alloy liquid of aluminum alloy or magnesium alloy to a movable mold for continuous casting from a tundish, in which the molten alloy liquid is stored. The casting nozzle is fixed to the tundish. The casting nozzle tip arranged on the movable mold side is made of a highly heat-conductive material having a heat conductivity of 0.2 W/mK or more, and a highly elastic material having an elastic modulus of 5000 MPa or more, etc. By making the tip of the casting nozzle with a material having superior thermal conductivity, the irregularity in solidification of the molten alloy liquid is decreased and thereby the surface quality of a cast alloy is improved. The nozzle tip is formed with a material having high elasticity and superior elastic deformability, whereby the interstice between the movable mold and the tip of outer peripheral edge of the nozzle is narrowed, and accordingly a cast alloy having superior surface quality can be obtained.
US07721783B2 Horizontally slatted blind
A horizontally slatted blind for an opening, such as a window, has a plurality of slats suspended from points on their two ends. One such point is the rear corner, and the other is between the front and rear corners. The edges of the slats between the rear corners are provided with stiffeners, which makes the slats rigid and provides them with additional weight. The axes of rotation of the slats lies between the points of suspension, and the slats are balanced relative thereto because of the extra weight provided by the stiffeners.
US07721782B2 Arched window covering
The arched window covering comprises a head rail that is mounted to an architectural feature. A mounting track is mounted to the arched architectural feature and a slider track is snap fit to the mounting track. The slider track includes support portions extending therefrom that slidably support a plurality of sliders such that the sliders can be moved relative to the slider track. The sliders are connected to a shade panel such that movement of the sliders on the slider track results in the extension and retraction of the shade panel.
US07721776B2 Tiles and apparatus, system and method for fabricating tiles and tile patterns
A router template for fabricating a contoured tile from a workpiece is provided. The router template includes a body that defines a cavity in which a nest is formed for retaining a workpiece during a cutting operation. A bearing path is defined within the body that engages a bearing of the router bit to guide the workpiece relative to the router bit. A cutting path is formed within the body to provide clearance within the body for a rotary cutting portion of the router bit. The cutting path and bearing path are aligned with each other and correspond to the desired size and contour of the tile. A method of cutting a contoured tile by following a template is also disclosed.
US07721775B2 Cap-free-filler pipe for the tank of a motor vehicle
A cap-free filler neck for a motor vehicle tank comprises a tubular part, which is connected to the tank, and an insert, which insert comprises a funnel part with a throat and a partition part adjoining the throat at the bottom. The upper edge zone of the funnel part and the partition part adjoin the tubular part in a sealing manner. The partition part has a throughflow opening which is closed in a sealing manner by a flap, which can be locked in a closed position, and can be pivoted into an open position counter to the force of a spring by a fuel nozzle. So that, despite the tight closure, rainwater which has penetrated can flow away, the space delimited by the tubular part, the funnel part and the partition part can be brought into connection with the environment via an opening in the tubular part, which opening can be closed by a valve, which is accommodated in said space, by the introduction of the fuel nozzle.
US07721773B2 Method and device for the production and bottling of liquids enriched with oxygen
The invention relates to a method and a device for the preparation and bottling of liquids enriched with oxygen or with an oxygen/gas mixture. The method includes filling one or more containers with a gas enriched liquid; and sealing the containers pressure-tight, whereby the gas enriched liquid is kept under a nitrogen atmosphere at least part of the time during the bottling process. The process includes a filling device having one or more filling elements including a liquid valve, at least one gas valve, and a nitrogen-filled chamber; a flow connection for flushing and/or prepressurizing a container with nitrogen; and a sealing device configured to seal the containers pressure-tight using a closure. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US07721771B2 Automatic suction structure of a vacuum container
The present invention provides an improved automatic suction structure of a vacuum container. The structure includes a pumping unit, a power supply, a vacuum releaser and a vacuum detector. The structure allows for automatic air suction, automatic detection, safety power disconnection and continuous vacuuming as well as easy operation. The present invention guarantees improved quality and convenient operation.
US07721770B2 Method of operating a device for filling a tank with cryogenically stored fuel
A method for operating a device for filling a tank for storing fuel as condensed gas for a consumer that can be operated with cryogenically stored fuel. Included is at least one filling line and one extraction line for connecting to a filling device on a gas-station-side. In a first time period for cooling the tank, the condensed gas is introduced into the tank, at least the large part is extracted again in the form of gas via the extraction line, and in a second subsequent time period, the tank is filled with condensed gas at the same time as at least the displaced gas is extracted. In a subsequent third time period, the filling line is closed and the extraction line is maintained open in order to guide the gas from the tank back until the pressure and/or the temperature in the tank is/are lowered to defined values.
US07721766B2 Fluid transfer tube
A problem solved by this invention is to enable prevention of damage to a connector in a fluid transfer tube that is made by mounting a connector to an end of a tube, even when an outside air temperature falls below freezing point. The problem is solved as follows. In a fluid transfer tube that is made by mounting pipe joints to ends of a tube that has elasticity, tube connecting portions of the pipe joints and sections of the tube in the vicinity of the tube connecting portions are covered with heat radiation preventing covers to thereby delay freezing of a fluid inside the tube sections that are covered by the heat radiation preventing covers.
US07721764B2 Process pressure measurement system with improved venting
A process fluid pressure measurement system includes a process fluid pressure transmitter coupled to a coplanar manifold. The coplanar manifold includes a first bore coupleable to a source of process fluid, and a vent passageway connected to the first bore and terminating in a vent hole. The coplanar manifold includes at least one port configured to receive a valve stem. Directly engaging the valve stem with the coplanar manifold selectively vents the coplanar manifold. Aspects of the present invention also include a coplanar manifold for coupling fluid to a process fluid pressure transmitter, and a method of venting such a coplanar manifold.
US07721762B2 Fast acting valve apparatuses
Embodiments of valve apparatuses are described.
US07721759B2 Valve having a protective cage
A valve for a liner bag includes a valve seat having an opening extending therethrough to be aligned with an opening in the liner bag, and a flange extends outwardly from the valve seat and is to be placed inside the liner bag so that the valve seat projects outside the liner bag. A valve member is within the opening of the valve seat for controlling egress of liquids or flowable solids from the liner bag. An operating lever is outside the liner bag for operating the valve member. A fixed protective cage is coupled to the flange for protecting the opening of the valve seat from inside the liner bag when the liner bag collapses.
US07721754B2 Tapping tee assembly with cap assembly
A tapping tee assembly and method for tapping a conduit and fluidly connecting to the conduit include a body defining a conduit recess for receiving the conduit and further defining a main passage with a cover disposed therein. The main passage has a first end adjacent the conduit recess and a second, open end spaced apart from the first end. The second end is closed by a cap. The body of the tapping tee assembly is secured to the conduit with the conduit received in the conduit recess. The cutter is advanced along the main passage toward the conduit without removal of the cap from the body to tap the conduit and fluidly connect the conduit and the main passage.
US07721746B2 Moisture diversion system for a collapsible structure
A moisture diversion system is provided for a collapsible structure including a collapsible frame assembly and an outer structure coupled to the collapsible frame assembly. The moisture diversion system includes a guide strip coupled at each of a first edge and an opposing second edge to the outer structure. The guide strip defines a channel between the first edge and the second edge for facilitating diverting moisture from the outer structure.
US07721743B2 Device and procedure for refractive laser surgery
The invention involves a device and a procedure for refractive laser surgery on a target object. With the aid of a laser beam source, an fs-impulse laser beam is generated. A second laser beam source generates a UV laser beam. A shared scanner device utilizes the fs-impulse laser beam and the UV laser beam for the scanning of the target object.
US07721742B2 Methods for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in the peritoneal cavity
A novel approach to diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in the peritoneal cavity is described. More specifically, a technique for accessing the peritoneal cavity via the wall of the digestive tract is provided so that examination of and/or a surgical procedure in the peritoneal cavity can be conducted via the wall of the digestive tract with the use of a flexible endoscope. As presently proposed, the technique is particularly adapted to transgastric peritoneoscopy. However, access in addition or in the alternative through the intestinal wall is contemplated and described as well. Transgastric and/or transintestinal peritoneoscopy will have an excellent cosmetic result as there are no incisions in the abdominal wall and no potential for visible post-surgical scars or hernias.
US07721738B2 Coupling arrangement
A coupling arrangement for a system for endotracheal ventilation of a patient is disclosed. The system includes an endotracheal tube and a manifold configured for allowing ventilation of the patient via the endotracheal tube, which manifold has a first coupling element with an axial extent and with engagement element; and which endotracheal tube has a second coupling element with an axial extent and with engagement element; wherein the coupling arrangement is configured to produce, when the first and the second coupling elements are moved together in the axial direction, a locking engagement between the engagement elements.
US07721737B2 Headgear and interface assembly using same
A headgear for attaching an object to a head of a user that is defined by a support beam and first and second ear loops coupled to opposite ends of the beam. The support beam generally wraps around a back of a user's neck or head and remains below the external occipital protuberance at all times during use of the headgear. This configuration minimizes the contact between the portions of the headgear and the user's hair. The first and second ear loops each include an upper arm adapted to be positioned above the ear, a lower arm adapted to be positioned below the ear, or both. An interface device is coupled to the headgear and held on the user's head by a tensioning force pulling the interface device toward the user.
US07721732B2 Respiratory heat exchanger
A heat exchange module comprising a number of substantially parallel and spaced apart heat exchange elements is provided. One or more surfaces of the heat exchange elements may be coated with a dessicant. The module can be manufactured so that first and second surfaces of the module are curved. The module may be used as part of a face mask or other garment that positions the module within the respiratory air stream of a user. The module may be inserted in a mesh sleeve provided as part of the garment. The module may also be used as part of other forms of clothing that protect the face and in protective helmets, or as part of outdoor or survival equipment.
US07721731B2 Dispenser
An inhalant dispenser has a cover 3 pivotally carried on a body 6. The cover has a cam arrangement for lifting a junction member 41 against the action of the spring in an inhalant can C. Lifting of the junction member cocks a breath actuated dose release mechanism. The latter includes a flap 61 in the breath path. The flap is carried on the junction member and is arranged to release a hinged member 48 by action of latches 70 on the flap and sears on the hinged member.
US07721729B2 Nebulizing drug delivery device for ventilator
The present invention provides a drug delivery device having a housing that includes a ventilator interface module and a base module removeably coupled to the ventilator interface module. An aerosol generator is disposed in the base module to nebulize a drug solution provided in the housing. The ventilator interface module has an outlet port through which nebulized particles of the drug solution can be communicated to a user, and an inlet port through which the housing receives intake gas. The housing has a flow path defined therein that directs intake gas from the inlet port to the outlet port such that the nebulized drug solution particles formed in the housing are motivated toward the outlet port when the base module is coupled to the ventilator interface module. A seal arrangement substantially seals the inlet port and outlet port from ambient atmosphere when the base module is uncoupled from the ventilator interface module, such that intake gas can be communicated from the inlet port to the outlet port.
US07721725B2 Method and apparatus for heating golf balls
A method and apparatus for heating golf balls or golf ball components is disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing that includes a back panel comprising a plurality of slots. The slots are preferably formed such that they are parallel to a plurality of trays of golf balls. The housing also includes a front panel that includes a plurality of openings that are substantially perpendicular to the trays of golf balls. The size of each of the plurality of openings may be varied based on a plurality of adjustable panels. Each of the adjustable panels may be capable of completely sealing an opening or being displaced to completely prevent obstruction of the opening. Heated air is preferably supplied via an air supply plenum that is capable of supplying air in a direction that is perpendicular to the back panel. The method and apparatus allow the interior of the housing to maintain a desired temperature differential and allow the rate of air flow to be manipulated.
US07721721B1 Reversible and adjustable module system for archery bow
An archery bow having a riser, a pair of flexible limbs extending from the riser, with each limb having a rotating member on an axel secured to the end thereof. At least one of the rotating members is a cam having a module secured thereto. The module is positionable with respect to the cam by translational movement and is also positionable on the cam with an opposite face against the cam to selectively provide a desired draw length.
US07721717B2 Diesel fuel filter
A diesel fuel filter has a filter element which incorporates or is constituted by a heater made of an electrically conductive fabric which heats at least the inlet side surface of the filter element. A filter element formed entirely from the electrically conductive fabric can be used to protect a lift pump 12 while a filter element made of layers of fine mesh filter material and an electrically conductive material of coarser mesh is better suited for the primary fuel filter 16 located upstream of the fuel injection pump 18.
US07721715B2 Injector mounting structure
A common rail and injectors are connected by fuel pipes disposed outside a cylinder head cover. The common rail and the plurality of injectors integrated by the fuel pipes can be detached from a cylinder head, so that the plurality of injectors are detached from the cylinder head together with the common rail. In removing the cylinder head cover for inspection work, therefore, release of the connections of the fuel pipes to the injectors and to the common rail can be eliminated to minimize the release of the connection of piping.
US07721712B2 Pressure regulating valve
A pressure regulating valve in a fuel injection system for internal combustion engines for regulating the pressure in a fuel reservoir in which the operating pressure is adjusted by the dimensioning of an adjusting disk, whose function-determining axial height is ascertained with high precision by a force measuring system and by a travel measuring system by way of ascertaining a spacing between an end face of a valve member of the pressure regulating valve and a reference face of a housing of the pressure regulating valve.
US07721709B2 Fuel injection control apparatus and method for internal combustion engine
A fuel injection control apparatus and method for an internal combustion engine are provided for appropriately controlling the amounts of fuel supplied from an in-cylinder fuel injection valve and a port fuel injection valve to a cylinder in a simple control approach while satisfactorily reflecting a fuel transport behavior as a whole cylinder. An ECU calculates a required in-cylinder injection amount and a required port injection amount, calculates an in-cylinder injected fuel behavior parameter of a fuel from the in-cylinder fuel injection valve and a port injected fuel behavior parameter of the fuel from the port fuel injection valve, a net in-cylinder injection amount in accordance with the in-cylinder and port injected fuel behavior parameters based on the required in-cylinder injection amount, and a net port injection amount in accordance with the in-cylinder and port injected fuel behavior parameters based on the required port injection amount.
US07721706B2 Magnesium throttle body and method of manufacturing the same
A magnesium-based throttle body is disclosed. The throttle body is manufactured by using a mold for manufacture of a throttle body. The throttle body includes a cooling water tube fixing portion into which a cooling water tube is press-inserted, the cooling water tube fixing portion being formed integrally with the throttle body.
US07721702B2 Spark plug having separate housing-mounted electrode
A spark plug arrangement for an exhaust treatment device is disclosed. The spark plug arrangement may have a body, and a center electrode extending from an end of the body. The spark plug arrangement may further have a mounting member with a bore configured to receive the body, and a grounded electrode extending proximal the center electrode.
US07721701B2 Rotary scissors action machine
A rotary machine is provided having rotating forward and rearward work members having cyclic non-constant angle motion there between, the machine includes a rotating shaft and a first gear eccentrically mounted with the rotating shaft. A reaction gear in mesh with the first gear causes the first gear to rotate with respect to the rotating shaft. First and second connecting rods are pivotally connected with the first gear. First and second crank arms are pivotally connected with the respective first and second connecting rods. First and second coaxial shafts are connected with the respective first and second first crank arms. The first shaft is connected with at least one forward work member. The second shaft is connected with at least one rearward work member.
US07721699B2 Calibrated air intake tract having air infusion insert
A Calibrated Air Intake Tract for Internal Combustion Engine is disclosed. The intake includes a Mass Airflow Sensor section that defines an inner diameter that differs from the diameter of the overall intake air tract piping. The Mass Airflow Sensor length and diameter are precision-tuned in order to provide the best engine performance without the typical “check engine” light being lit due to faulty mass airflow sensor readings. In those vehicles where necessary, an insert of the appropriate size and in the proper location is added to the interior wall of the MAFS section in order to correct final fuel trim level inadequacies.
US07721695B2 Connection element for the secure fixing of a lever-type cam follower
Connecting element (10) retains cam follower (2), which actuates gas-exchange valve (4) of an internal combustion engine, on support element (6). Support element (6) has spherical end (7) on cylindrical section (22) and on which cam follower (2) is mounted, so as to be pivotably movable in the direction of gas-exchange valve (4) about center of rotation (9). Connecting element (10) has elastically deformable projections (21), which proceed from central webs (19), parallel to the pivot axis of cam follower (2) such that connecting element (10) is connected to cylindrical section (22) in a frictionally-engaging manner. Projections (21) are embodied as lugs (20) which angle away from central webs (19) and extend in a direction pointing away from cam follower (2), so that projections (21) are elastic in shape.
US07721690B2 Valve actuation mechanism
A valve actuation mechanism are disclosed, which is capable of controlling the lift of valves of an engine by more than three on/off combinations. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the valve actuation mechanism is designed to control the opening and closing of engine valves by the use of an uncomplicated structure with minimum solenoid valves and hydraulic lines. By the valve actuation mechanism of the invention, not only the design of hydraulic line as well as that of space mechanism of an engine can be greatly simplified, but also the opening and closing of valves of an engine can be controlled thereby for enabling the engine to provide different valve lifts and thus satisfying different engine requirements, such as output power increasing, combustion efficiency improving, or cylinder deactivation.
US07721689B2 System and method for controlling fluid flow to or from a cylinder of an internal combustion engine
A system for controlling fluid flow to or from at least one cylinder of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The system includes a rotary valve. A cylinder head having a valve chamber accommodates the rotary valve. The rotary valve is arranged to selectively open or close a flow opening in the cylinder head. A drive motor is coupled to the rotary valve to impart rotation thereto.
US07721685B2 Rotary cylindrical power device
This invention is a cylindrical rotary power device, usable as and convertible to a rotary internal combustion engine, pump, and/or compressor. The device incorporates an ingenious design and composition utilizing bilateral symmetry to minimize power losses and maximize efficiency. It operates with a minimum of moving parts which can be manufactured at relatively low cost and readily maintained. Also, the power device of the present invention is readily converted to an internal combustion engine by merely removing the external power source and providing fuel flow and ignition charge to the cylinders.
US07721684B2 Internal combustion engine
A power transfer assembly (2000) for transferring energy within a combustion engine (1010) externally of the engine. The power transfer assembly includes a crankshaft (2006) adapted to convert reciprocating motion to rotating motion. The power transfer assembly further includes an outdrive (2004, 2020, and/or 2026) adapted to transfer the rotating motion of the crankshaft to an external device requiring power. The outdrive is non-rigidly interfaced with the outdrive such that the crankshaft is permitted to freely rotate relative to the outdrive about at least one axis (2014) and freely move linearly in at least one direction (2027) relative to the outdrive during operation.
US07721682B2 System for producing a hydrogen enriched fuel
A system for producing, dispensing, using and monitoring a hydrogen enriched fuel includes a producing system configured to produce the hydrogen enriched fuel, a vehicle having an engine configured to use the hydrogen enriched fuel, and a dispensing system configured to store and dispense the hydrogen enriched fuel into the vehicle. The system also includes a fuel delivery system on the vehicle configured to deliver the hydrogen enriched fuel to the engine, and a control system configured to control the producing system and to monitor the use of the hydrogen enriched fuel by the vehicle. A method includes the steps of producing hydrogen gas and a hydrocarbon fuel, blending the hydrogen gas and the hydrocarbon fuel into the hydrogen enriched fuel, using the hydrogen enriched fuel in the engine, and tracking emissions during the producing step and during the using step.
US07721681B1 Hydrocarbon and water hybrid engine
The present invention involves methods and apparatus for supplying fuel for a hydrocarbon and water hybrid engine. Water may be supplied from a water supply source to a steam chamber disposed with an exhaust conduit. Heat may be conducted from the exhaust conduit to the steam chamber to produce steam. The steam may be flowed to a catalytic converter that may have a substrate element disposed therein with the substrate element coated with an oxide that may be oxidizable with steam and reducible back to the original state without use of a chemical agent while producing oxygen. The steam may be converted to hydrogen and oxygen and the hydrogen and oxygen may be flowed to an intake port of the internal combustion engine. The steam and catalytic converted hydrogen and oxygen may be used as an energy source and the hydrogen and oxygen may be converted to heated water for recycling as a steam source.
US07721680B2 Link type seismic tie for boilers
A link-type seismic tie is provided between a steel structural support and a buckstay, and includes two horizontally arranged, parallel, and spaced apart link members, which are connected at their ends to large vertical pins. Each of the link members includes two horizontally arranged and parallel longitudinal outboard stringers and a horizontally arranged and parallel longitudinal center stringer centered between the two outboard stringers. Each link member further includes finger plates standing upright and spaced apart from each other relatively perpendicular to the longitudinal stringers. The finger plates are held between each of the outboard stringers and the longitudinal center stringer. A gusset plate connects the outboard stringers to a pin plate, which is connected to a large pin at the buckstay. The other end of the link members is connected to a large pin at the steel structural support via the ends of the outboard stringers.
US07721679B2 Vapor generator with preheater and method of operating same
An efficient high-temperature water vapor generator includes a combustion chamber and a surrounding structure, wherein a cavity is located therebetween. Water is pumped into the cavity at a location near a first end of the combustion chamber. Water is removed from the cavity at a location near a second end of the combustion chamber, opposite the first end. The water removed from the cavity is injected into the combustion chamber at a location near the first end. Fuel and air are also introduced into the combustion chamber at the first end. The fuel and air are ignited near the first end of the combustion chamber, thereby creating high-temperature water vapor, and pre-heating the water in the cavity surrounding the combustion chamber.
US07721676B2 Bird feeder
A bird feeder is provided having a pivotal wire bail to allow the top cap to be lifted and rotated away from the top opening for easy filling of bird food without unnecessary spillage. Additionally, the invention provides for a detachable base cap having a spring clip retention feature that holds the base cap in place when in use but provides for its intentional removal when desired for cleaning purposes. The feeder has an optional detachable tray where birds can rest while feeding. The invention also provides multiple embodiments, having a body constructed of metal or plastic alternatives. The metal bodies, preferably tubular in shape, are each formed of perforated or expanded metal, having holes therethrough, the size of the holes being dependent upon the size of the seed or other feed selected. The plastic tube feeder provides feeder ports for seed access, as well as rotatable perches for the birds to rest on while feeding.
US07721673B2 Hollow cathode discharging apparatus
The present invention provides a hollow cathode discharging apparatus including a hollow anode electrode, a hollow cathode electrode insulatedly fixed in the hollow anode electrode, a gas distribution pipe fixed in the hollow cathode electrode. The hollow anode electrode and the hollow cathode electrode are formed with anode openings and cathode openings respectively. Defined by the gas distribution pipe and the hollow cathode electrode and along the axis thereof is a spiral pathway winding through the cathode openings, so as to form a plurality of continuous and communicated reaction chambers. The gas distribution pipe is disposed with gas separation apertures communicated and adapted to introduce a reactive gas into the reaction chambers. The communicated reaction chambers enable uniform distribution of the reactive gas and thereby facilitate scale-up of the apparatus in axial. Accordingly, the present invention overcomes drawbacks of the prior art.
US07721666B1 Hull-mounted line retrieval and release system
A line retrieve-release system is provided for mounting on the hull of a boat. Jaws are coupled to the hull of the boat and face substantially aft relative to the boat's bow. The jaws are capable of movement between a partially open position defining the system's “line retrieve” position and a fully open position defining the system's “line release” position. A latch coupled to the jaws is biased to cooperate therewith in the partially open position to thereby define a first enclosed region bounded by the jaws and latch. The latch permits one-way entry into the first enclosed region when a force is applied to the latch from outside of the first enclosed region. Line catch means are coupled to the hull of the boat aft of the jaws. The line catch means combines with the jaws in their partially open position to define a second enclosed region adjacent to the first enclosed region. The line catch means permits one-way entry to the second enclosed region when a force is applied thereto from outside of the second enclosed region. Actuator element(s) are coupled to the jaws to move them to their fully open position to thereby open both the first and second enclosed regions. The actuator elements also allow the retrieve-release system to reset to its “line retrieve” position.
US07721664B2 Feed direction change assembly for sewing machine
The purpose of this invention is to change the direction of the feed so that the user/operator can now use the free arm of the sewing machine to the optimum advantage. The conventional domestic free arm sewing machine has, heretofore, been limited to sewing in a lateral direction across the free arm. The use of this invention allows the machine to be used so that tubular shaped garments can travel along and around the free arm of the sewing machine this sewing can be accomplished with any outside seams, something, heretofore, impossible with a conventional free arm sewing machine.
US07721659B2 Universal support element for universal shelf divider, label and sign holder
An improved support element for a shelf divider, label, and sign holder system. The support element includes a substantially U-shaped rigid plastic shell which may be adhesively affixed to the upper surface of a shelf to support a shelf divider. The support element includes elongated flexible ridges or beads within a support element channel, the free ends of which are spaced from and face the interior surface that defines the channel. The ridges are compressible to exert a gripping force on the item to be retained. The support element can also be part of a label and sign holder system. Both a single and double-facing support element is provided to interact with a label holder locking strip.
US07721658B2 Computer workstation with movable monitor support
A computer workstation includes a worksurface horizontally moveable from a first worksurface position to a second worksurface position. At least a portion of the worksurface rotates about a horizontal axis as the worksurface is moved from the first worksurface position to the second worksurface position. A monitor support is moveable horizontally and vertically and moveably coupled to the worksurface. The worksurface or the monitor support is moveable in response to a movement of the other of the worksurface and the monitor support.
US07721653B1 Combined subway wall and door assembly and associated method
A combined wall and door assembly includes a static wall assembly including a segmented support frame with a rectilinear shape. The static wall assembly further includes a plurality of transparent fiberglass panels directly coupled to the support frame and spaced along an entire longitudinal length of the support frame. The assembly further includes a mechanism for automatically biasing the access doors between open and closed positions when the subway train arrives and leaves a train terminal respectively such that passengers are prohibited from premature ingress and egress of the subway train during a schedule stop.
US07721652B2 Gas generator
A gas generator including a plug (24) having a header part (45) and two or more electrode pins (22, 23), a thin-film bridge (25) having electrode pads (41, 42), and a squib (10) in which upon supply of electric current to the thin-film bridge (25) via the electrode pins (22, 23), the thin-film bridge (25) is activated to ignite ignition materials (26, 27), wherein the thin-film bridge (25) is arranged into a hollow (32) prepared at the plug (24) in such a manner that the thin-film bridge (25) is kept approximately on a level with the head (35) of the electrode pins (22, 23) and the header part (45) of the plug (24), the thin-film bridge (25) is connected by wire bonding to the electrode pins (22, 23) at the electrode pad parts (41, 42), and at least either of the electrode pad (41) or (42) of the thin-film bridge (25) is connected by the wire bonding to a metal part of the header part (45) of the plug (24).
US07721649B2 Injection molded shaped charge liner
A shaped charge liner formed by injection molding, where the liner comprises a powdered metal mixture of a first and second metal. The mixture includes about 50% to about 99% by weight percent of the first metal, about 1% to about 50% by weight percent of a second metal, about 1% to about 50% by weight percent of a third metal. In one embodiment, the first metal comprises tungsten, the second metal may comprise nickel, and the third metal may comprise copper.
US07721647B2 Apparatus and method for cleaning a webbing-up device in a printing press
An apparatus and method for cleaning a webbing-up device in a printing press is disclosed. A webbing-up device for webbing up a printing substrate web in a printing press, namely in a web-fed printing press, includes a finite conveyor chain, which is made up of several chain segments that are connected to one another in an articulated manner, and which is guided into a chain guide rail. A cleaning device, which is detachably connected to the conveyor chain, is allocated to at least one end of the finite conveyor chain.
US07721645B2 Device for keeping a mold plate square, perpendicular and driving for a food product molding machine
A belt drive system for a reciprocating mold plate in a food product molding machine. The invention relates to a belt drive system having a belt tensioning device configured to tension a drive belt of an indexing motion food product molding machine. The invention provides ease of service and/or replacement of components of the drive system. The invention provides a manifold configuration to balance the flow and pressure of the food product over a wide fill area.
US07721639B2 Methods and apparatus for use in a locked machine gun
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for a locked machine gun that includes a casing, a barrel, a locking breech mechanism, an abutment and a quick change attachment. The locking breech mechanism has at least one locking body. The abutment holds the locking body or locking bodies of the locked breech mechanism. The quick-change attachment is used to facilitate the removal of the barrel and insertion and attachment of a new barrel. A first part of the abutment remains on the casing when the barrel is being changed, and a second part of the abutment is firmly connected to the barrel. The quick-change attachment is equipped to bring about a separation between the first part of the abutment remaining with the casing and the barrel with the second part. Also, the second part of the abutment has a curved section which controls the engagement of the breech mechanism in the abutment when the breech mechanism closes.
US07721636B2 Hole puncher
A hole puncher has a base, multiple cutter brackets, multiple cutters, multiple springs, a linkage, an activating member and a handle. The base has two ends. The cutter brackets are mounted on the base. The cutters are mounted slidably through the cutter brackets. The linkage connects pivotally to one end of the base. The activating member connects pivotally to the linkage. The handle connects pivotally to the other end of the base and selectively pivots the linkage down. With the linkage and the activating member, the hole punch is effort-saving.
US07721635B2 Lever handled paper punch
A punch apparatus for punching holes through a paper stack. The apparatus has a rotationally attached lever handle. The lever handle has a handle end, a contact end, and a rotation axis between the handle end and the contact end. When a downward force is applied to the handle end, the lever handle rotates about the rotation axis. The contact end of the lever handle then exerts a force on a lever arm which in turn rotates a main shaft and attached pressure plate. As a result, the pressure plate exerts a punching force down on punch pins causing them to punch down through the paper stack.
US07721634B2 Punch tool
A punch tool includes a casing; a plurality of small-diameter punches vertically movable and circularly arranged in the casing; a plurality of large-diameter punches vertically movable and circularly arranged in the casing; a punch driver provided to be vertically movable and relatively rotatable on an upper portion of the casing; and a striker provided on the punch driver to be capable of striking the respective punches. Stripper springs corresponding to the respective small-diameter punches are provided. Since the respective large-diameter punches are arranged between the small-diameter punches, the stripper springs for the small-diameter punches on both sides of the large-diameter punch serve as stripper springs of the large-diameter punch.
US07721628B2 Manual tong
A manually or mechanically/hydraulically operable tong of light weight and high load capacity by means of a multi-layer interlocking construction achieved by cutting the shapes from plate steel by known means, assembling the plate sections in suitable order, and retained with each other by cylindrical steel pins (8) forming a multi hinged tool capable of engaging the job circumference on two or more points equally via replaceable jaw dies (15) retained radially and axially.
US07721624B2 Automatic transmission and running range switching device
An automatic transmission that includes a case; and a range shift device that includes: a housing with an opening portion on one side, a motor that produces a driving force based on a signal from a manually operated shift operating device, and a mechanical transmission that transmits the driving force of the motor to a manual valve, wherein the range shift device shifts a running range in accordance with a shift position of the manual valve, and the case has a joining portion that closes the opening portion of the housing.
US07721620B2 Adjustable steering apparatus
An adjustable steering apparatus includes: a movable bracket to which a steering jacket having a steering wheel is fixed and to which a movable telescopic member having a tooth portion is fixedly mounted; a stationary bracket which is disposed externally of the movable bracket and fixed to a vehicle body, and to which a stationary tilt member having a tooth portion is fixedly mounted; a movable tilt member having a tooth portion meshingly engageable with the tooth portion of the stationary tilt member; and a stationary telescopic member having a tooth portion meshingly engageable with the tooth portion of the movable telescopic member. Both the movable tilt member and the stationary tilt member have openings. The tooth portion of the stationary telescopic member is designed to be meshed with the tooth portion of the movable telescopic member as penetrating through the movable tilt member and stationary tilt member.
US07721612B2 Real-time filtration apparatus and associated methods
A fluid testing apparatus and associated method include a testing chamber, a filter storage device and a filter transfer mechanism. The testing chamber has a sample volume, a filtrate collection reservoir, an opening between the sample volume and the filtrate collection reservoir, and at least one port into the sample volume. The filter transfer mechanism positions at least one filter in the opening. The opening is closed and a sample fluid, introduced into the port, at least partially fills the sample volume. The sample volume is pressurized and a filtrate of the sample fluid flows from the sample volume, through the filter into the filtrate collection reservoir. The volume of filtrate passing into the filtrate collection reservoir is measured and the sample fluid from sample volume is discharged. The filtrate is discharged from the filtrate collection reservoir, and the filter transfer mechanism removes the filter.
US07721610B2 Rotating body dynamic quantity measuring device and system
A single crystal semiconductor including a Wheatstone bridge circuit formed of an impurity diffusion layer whose longitudinal direction is aligned with a particular crystal orientation is connected to a rotating body. A rotating body dynamic quantity measuring device and a system using the measuring device are fatigue- and corrosion-resistant because of the single crystal semiconductor used and are not easily affected by temperature variations because of the bridge circuit considering a single crystal anisotropy.
US07721606B2 Ultrasonic test method and ultrasonic test instrument used for the method
An ultrasonic test method for detecting a defective portion more precisely in a noncontact reflection way, and ultrasonic test instrument used for the method. An ultrasonic wave is transmitted from a transmitter (20 (21)) provided on one side of an object under test, and the reflected wave is received by a receiver (30 (31)) provided on the same side. The ultrasonic wave is transmitted/received through an air layer between the transmitter and the object (100) under test and between the receiver and the object (100). The relative positions of the transmitter (20), the receiver (30), and the object (100) are so determined that the air propagation time ta of the air path (RA) between the transmitter and the receiver is longer than the propagation time tb of the reflected wave in the reflection path (RB). The propagation of the ultrasonic wave through the solid body between the transmitter and the receiver is blocked. This invention is suitable to test laminated material (100) such as a laminate of CFRP (101) and insulation (102) in a noncontact way.
US07721602B2 Filling level sensor
In the case of a filling level sensor (1) for detecting a fuel filling level in a fuel tank (2), a lever arm (7) which secures a float (6) has a guide part (14). The guide part (14) interacts with an installation opening (3) in the fuel tank (2) and deflects the lever arm (7) in a designated direction. This avoids the filling level sensor (1) being damaged during installation in the fuel tank (2).
US07721596B2 Apparatus and method to monitor slurries for waste re-injection
A method to inject a slurry into a subterranean formation includes measuring characteristic data from a well in communication with the subterranean formation, estimating downhole properties of the slurry using the measured characteristic data, measuring surface properties of the slurry with a measurement apparatus, determining optimal surface properties for the slurry from the estimated downhole properties, comparing the measured surface properties with the determined optimal surface properties, modifying the slurry until the measured surface properties are within tolerance values of the determined optimal surface properties, and injecting the modified slurry into the subterranean formation through the well.
US07721595B2 Apparatus and method to monitor slurries for waste re-injection
A method to inject a slurry into a subterranean formation includes measuring characteristic data from a well in communication with the subterranean formation, estimating downhole properties of the slurry using the measured characteristic data, measuring surface properties of the slurry with a measurement apparatus, determining optimal surface properties for the slurry from the estimated downhole properties, comparing the measured surface properties with the determined optimal surface properties, modifying the slurry until the measured surface properties are within tolerance values of the determined optimal surface properties, and injecting the modified slurry into the subterranean formation through the well.
US07721594B2 Apparatus and method to monitor slurries for waste re-injection
A method to inject a slurry into a subterranean formation includes measuring characteristic data from a well in communication with the subterranean formation, estimating downhole properties of the slurry using the measured characteristic data, measuring surface properties of the slurry with a measurement apparatus, determining optimal surface properties for the slurry from the estimated downhole properties, comparing the measured surface properties with the determined optimal surface properties, modifying the slurry until the measured surface properties are within tolerance values of the determined optimal surface properties, and injecting the modified slurry into the subterranean formation through the well.
US07721592B2 Tire pressure gauge with cap wrench
A tire pressure gauge with a valve cap wrench is disclosed. A bore at one end of the tire pressure gauge may be used to grip and remove a valve cap mounted on a valve stem of a tire. A port at the other end of the tire pressure gauge may be used to measure air pressure in a tire. The measured air pressure may be displayed on a display on the pencil gauge. The cap wrench may have a collet to hold a valve cap and a switch to tighten and loosen grip on a valve cap. The cap wrench may also have a plunger to push a valve cap out of the pencil gauge.
US07721588B2 Systems and methods for detecting particles
A method of detecting particles during inspection is provided. The method includes establishing a security checkpoint including a detection system, wherein the detection system includes a chamber defining a passage and includes a plurality of jets. The method also includes passing an individual through the passage, enhancing a convection plume including particles from the individual by blowing air through at least one of the plurality of jets, and absorbing the particles in a preconcentrator including a filter encased in a frame having a high thermal conductivity. Moreover, the method includes evaporating the particles absorbed in the preconcentrator and using a detector to determine whether the particles are from at least one of an explosive material and a narcotic substance.
US07721584B2 Work conveyance device, press machine and bar removal method
A plurality of workpiece holders 52 are attached on a slide plate 71 on a bar 14 and connected to a movable plate 72 by a plate connecting portion 73. The plate connecting portion 73 includes an engaging portion 731 that is provided on the movable plate 72 and an engaged portion 732 that is provided on the slide plate 71 and engaged with the engaging portion 731. By moving a fixed bar 141 downward relative to a movable bar 142, the movable bar 142 is detached and the engagement of the engaging portion 731 with the engaged portion 732 is released. Since both of the movable bar 142 and the slide plate 71 can be detached by a single downward movement of the fixed bar 141, no actuator is required, thereby simplifying the structure.
US07721582B2 Bending machine for rod-shaped workpieces made from wire, tubular material or the like
In a bending machine for bending rod-shaped workpieces made from wire, tubular material or the like, a machine frame is provided with at least one bending station including two bending units. Each of said bending units includes a bending head with a bending head housing and a bending tool, an auxiliary gripper arranged on the bending head housing so as to be pivotable perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the machine frame, and a gripping unit, which is spaced apart from the bending head as viewed along the longitudinal axis of the frame, pivotable perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the machine frame and displaceable on a guide in the direction of said axis. The two bending heads of each bending station are arranged next to each other with their auxiliary grippers facing each other and are positioned between the two gripping units such that each bending head- viewed in the direction of the frame's longitudinal axis—is mounted between the other bending head and the gripping unit associated with the other bending head.
US07721580B2 Apparatus for rotationally locking a roller-mill roll in a bearing mount in a mount window of a rolling-mill frame
An apparatus for rotationally locking a rolling-mill roll in the bearing mount LS in a rolling-mill frame has an axially shiftable housing fitted to the stub (WZ) of the roll, having a planar flange (FA) that in one position of the housing bears on an abutment face of an abutment element fixed in the bearing mount (LS).
US07721576B2 Lock cylinder opening system and method
A lock cylinder opening system comprising: a lock cylinder body housing with a direction of elongation defining an axial direction for the system, having a first and a second end, and having a first and a second axial bores; a rotatable first cylindrical plug in the first bore, the first plug having an axially extending key slot from the first end of the lock cylinder; a rotatable second cylindrical plug in the first bore, the second plug extending to the second end; a rotatable opening shaft in the second bore, the opening shaft extending at the first and second ends of the lock cylinder; and a selector unit positioned at the second end, having a mechanical connection with the second plug and receiving the opening shaft, the selector unit adapted to selectively enable and disable rotation of the second plug by rotation of the opening shaft.
US07721573B2 Method and a machine for the production of hollow glassware articles
A power and fluid feeding apparatus for providing energy and cooling and operating fluid at molding apparatuses of glassware forming machine having single or multiple forming cavities, of the type including a blank mold forming station, an intermediate station, a blow forming station, and a take out station by the blow-and-blow process, press-and-blow wide mouth or narrow neck process, press-and-blow paste mold process and direct press.
US07721572B2 Method for reshaping glass-ceramic articles, apparatus for performing the method and glass-ceramic articles made thereby
The apparatus performs a forced reshaping of a flat green glass part during a ceramicizing process in which the viscosity of the glass is temporarily lowered due to crystallization heat. The apparatus includes a continuous furnace (3) for the ceramicizing process: a reshaping device (2′) provided with activating openings (6); and vertically movable pressure-operated reshaping tools (9) arranged in the reshaping device (2′). The furnace (3) is provided with lateral openings (4) for temporarily connecting activating lines (8) to the activating openings (6) of the reshaping device (2′) in a sealed manner in order to operate the reshaping tools (9) by supplying pressurized air to the reshaping device or by producing a low pressure in the reshaping device (2′).
US07721571B2 Clothing jewelry
The clothing jewelry is formed from a plurality of short chains removably attached to an article of clothing to form a plurality of vertically extending retainer loops, and an elongated decorative member supported by the retainer loops and encircling a portion of the clothing, e.g., a pant leg, a jacket or blouse adjacent the cuff, a skirt adjacent the hemline, and similar clothing articles. The elongated member may be a jewelry chain formed into a continuous or endless loop, a ribbon formed into an endless loop, or other decorative loops. The short chains have fasteners, e.g., a pin and back fastener, at both ends for removable attachment to the article of clothing.
US07721569B2 Method and apparatus for control of carbon dioxide gas cooler pressure by use of a capillary tube
A transcritical vapor compression system that includes a fluid circuit circulating a refrigerant in a closed loop. The fluid circuit has operably disposed therein, in serial order, a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a first capillary tube and a second heat exchanger. The compressor compresses the refrigerant from a low pressure to a supercritical pressure. The first heat exchanger is positioned in a high pressure side of the fluid circuit and the second heat exchanger is positioned in a low pressure side of the fluid circuit. The first capillary tube reduces the pressure of the refrigerant from a supercritical pressure to a relatively lower pressure. The refrigerant flows through the first capillary tube at its critical velocity and means for controlling the temperature of the refrigerant in the first capillary tube are provided.
US07721568B1 Refrigerator unit beverage tapper conversion kit
A refrigerator unit beverage tapper conversion kit includes a door cover. The door cover includes a nylon sheet sewn into the shape of a generally concave cap. The regular door is replaced with the door cover. At least one insulating layer is attached to an inside surface of the cap. An inside perimeter of the door cover is sized to be slipped over an outside perimeter of an open end of the refrigerator unit. An elastic loop is retained on an open perimeter of the door cover for sealing an open end of the refrigerator unit. The refrigerator unit beverage tapper conversion kit may also include a carbon dioxide bottle, a gas regulator, a sankey, a faucet support, a faucet, a faucet shank, a carbon dioxide tube and a beverage tube. The faucet is disposed on the refrigerator door cover for dispensing a beverage in a half barrel.
US07721567B2 Cooling, carbonation and dispensing system for a liquid in a keg
A cooling, carbonation and dispensing system for use with a liquid in a keg includes a cooling ring mounted on top of the keg. The cooling ring includes a toroidal-shaped shell into which dry ice is placed. The cooling ring and dry ice provide contact cooling of the keg, as well as carbon dioxide gas by sublimation of the dry ice to carbonate the liquid in the keg and pressure on the liquid so that it may be dispensed from the keg. A chilling unit having a hose bundle is mounted on top of the cooling ring. A liquid dispensing hose from the keg coupler on the keg connects to the hose bundle, so that liquid from the keg passes through the hose bundle. A lid having a tower is attached to the top of the chilling unit and latched to it to form a water-tight seal. Another hose connects to the hose bundle in the chilling unit and conducts the liquid to a dispensing hose attached to a dispenser in the tower. Wet ice is placed in the chilling unit and the tower to provide further chilling (flash chilling) of the liquid. The components of the assembled system may be wrapped in an insulating blanket to provide further cooling.
US07721560B2 Climate control and dehumidification system and method
A system for controlling temperature and humidity in an enclosure, that has a central air conditioning system; a dehumidifier attached to a return air duct of the central air conditioning system; and a system control unit that comprises a thermostat, dehumidstat and can control a cooling solenoid valve to provide temperature control, and control a dehumidifier solenoid valve to provide humidity control. The cooling solenoid valve and the dehumidifier solenoid valve can be independently activated based on the temperature and humidity of the enclosure. Embodiments of the present invention include systems that are easily modify existing air conditioning systems.
US07721555B2 Gas turbine with free-running generator driven by by-pass gas flow
A gas turbine, especially an aircraft engine is provided. The gas turbine comprises at least one compressor (15, 16), at least one combustion chamber (17), at least one turbine (18, 19), and at least one generator (20) for generating electrical energy, each generator (20) comprising at least one stator (25) and at least one rotor (22). Each rotor (22) of each generator (20) is embodied as a free-wheeling generator turbine that is driven by a gas flow in such a way that it rotates in relation to the respective stator (25) of the respective generator (20) and thus generates electrical energy from the kinetic energy of the gas flow.
US07721553B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a flashback condition in a gas turbine
A method and apparatus for detecting a flashback condition in a fuel nozzle (8) of a gas turbine (10) are provided. The fuel nozzle is configured to pass a flow of air (20) to be mixed with a fuel in a premixing zone (11). The apparatus includes at least one fuel injecting device (12) positioned to define a point of fuel injection in the premixing zone. The apparatus further includes an electrode (16) positioned upstream of the point of fuel injection. The electrode is adapted to sense a flashback condition that can occur in the premixing zone.
US07721547B2 Combustion transition duct providing stage 1 tangential turning for turbine engines
A transition duct for routing a gas flow from a combustor to the first stage of a turbine section in a combustion turbine engine has an internal passage from an inlet to an outlet that is offset from the inlet in the longitudinal, radial and tangential directions. The offset outlet and the curved internal passage discharge the gas flow toward the first stage blade array at an angle in the tangential direction relative to the longitudinal direction. This angled discharge can be presented directly to the blades, thus avoiding the need for first stage vanes and the associated costs and complexity.
US07721541B2 Secondary internal combustion device for providing exhaust gas to EGR-equipped engine
A system and method for providing exhaust gas to an EGR-equipped lean burn diesel engine (the primary engine). The exhaust gas is provided by a secondary internal combustion device, whose configuration, thermal cycle, and operating conditions may be different from that of the primary engine. The secondary internal combustion device may receive recirculated exhaust gas, fresh air, or some combination of both.
US07721540B2 Engine system routing crankcase gases into exhaust
An engine system is disclosed. The engine system has an engine block having at least one combustion chamber and at least partially defining a crankcase. The engine system also has an inlet conduit connecting a compressor of a turbocharger with the at least one combustion chamber. The engine system further has an exhaust conduit connecting a turbine of the turbocharger with the combustion chamber and a ventilation conduit connecting the crankcase with the exhaust conduit. The engine system also has a controller in communication with the turbocharger, the controller being configured to adjust the geometry of the turbocharger to maintain a pressure of the crankcase lower than a pressure of the inlet conduit.
US07721537B2 Exhaust assembly
A system includes a combustion engine for a genset. The engine having an exhaust to emit water and exhaust gases from the exhaust and a sound-dampening device coupled between the exhaust and a muffler, the sound-dampening device including a tubular member having internal rings.
US07721536B2 Particulate filter having expansible capture structure for particulate removal
A combustion engine comprising an exhaust system containing a particulate filter (10, 52) for trapping particulate matter in engine exhaust passing through the exhaust system. A particulate trapping medium (18) inside a casing is selectively operable to a relatively lesser porosity for trapping particulate matter in the exhaust and to a relatively greater porosity for facilitating removal of trapped particulate matter during cleaning.
US07721534B2 Control method for an exhaust gas purification system and an exhaust gas purification system
An exhaust gas control system (1) comprised with a continuous regeneration-type DPF (13), an exhaust throttle valve (16) and a DPF control means (30C), wherein the regeneration control is suspended, the multi injection control is performed, and the exhaust throttle valve is closed, when detecting a-stop condition of the vehicle during the regeneration control of the continuous regeneration-type diesel particulate filter device (13) by the regeneration means. Thereby, concerning the regeneration of the continuous regeneration-type DPF device (13), the DPF can be regenerated securely by burning PM efficiently even in a traveling pattern of frequent waiting for the traffic lights to change in urban areas.
US07721533B2 Diesel dosing system relief of trapped volume fluid pressure at shutdown
A diesel dosing system for a vehicle includes a control valve (31) controlling fluid flow to a dosing valve (32) for supplying fuel directly into an exhaust passage of the vehicle. A system pressure source (55) feeds the control valve. A shutoff valve (54) is fluidly connected to the pressure source downstream thereof and to the control valve upstream thereof. The shutoff valve permits bidirectional flow there-through. A connection (57) is between the shutoff valve and the control valve defining a fluid volume there-between. The shutoff valve permits fluid flow from the system pressure source through the connection and to the control valve during a regeneration phase of the system. Upon engine shutdown and based on fluid pressure in the volume, the shutoff valve opens so that fluid trapped in the volume will communicate with the pressure source thereby reducing the fluid pressure in the volume.
US07721532B2 Method and system for regeneration of a catalyst
The disclosed embodiments relate to a method and system for regeneration of a catalyst. The system includes an engine that creates an exhaust stream and a fuel supply adapted to supply a fuel stream to the engine. A reactor includes a catalyst and is in fluid communication with the engine to receive the exhaust stream. A sensor senses a system parameter and produces a signal corresponding to the system parameter. A controller receives the signal and directs at least a portion of the exhaust stream or at least a portion of the fuel stream to the catalyst to control a regeneration operation based on a value of the system parameter sensed by the sensor.
US07721530B2 Crankcase ventilation system
A system for venting crankcase emissions from an engine is disclosed generally comprising a crankcase emissions conduit that communicates blow-by gases from the crankcase into the exhaust flow of an exhaust conduit, which includes a venturi, via an inlet located upstream of the minimum inner diameter of the venturi in order to pump the crankcase emissions therethrough. In certain embodiments, the gases are then directed to a filter assembly, which may include a particulate filter and may include a catalyst for facilitating redox of harmful substances to create harmless compounds prior to venting them or recirculating them in the system. In certain advantageous embodiments, an auxiliary oxygen supply is provided to facilitate these burning processes.
US07721529B2 Exhaust system providing in situ sensor calibration
An exhaust system for a combustion source is disclosed. The exhaust system may have a passageway connected to receive an exhaust flow from the combustion source, and a sensor disposed within the passageway. The sensor may generate a signal indicative of the concentration of a constituent in the exhaust flow. The exhaust system may also have a controller in communication with the sensor to receive the signal. The controller may be configured to selectively communicate a flow of calibration gas with the sensor during operation of the combustion source, and compare the signal received during the selective communication with a reference value. The controller may be further configured to adjust the sensor output in response to the comparison.
US07721521B2 Methods and apparatus for a combustion turbine fuel recirculation system and nitrogen purge system
A method of operating a fuel system is provided. The method includes removing fuel from at least a portion of the fuel system using a gravity drain process. The method also includes channeling nitrogen into at least a portion of the fuel system to facilitate removing air and residual fuel from at least a portion of the fuel system, thereby mitigating a formation of carbonaceous precipitate particulates. The method further includes removing air and nitrogen from at least a portion of the fuel system during a fuel refilling process using a venting process such that at least a portion of the fuel system is substantially refilled with fuel and substantially evacuated of air and nitrogen. The method also includes removing air from at least a portion of the refilled fuel system using a venting process. The method further includes recirculating fuel within at least a portion of the fuel system, thereby removing heat from at least a portion of the fuel system and facilitating a transfer of operating fuel modes.
US07721519B2 Method for the production of a fancy yarn
A method which improves the correspondence between the produced fancy yarn and the predetermined configuration of said fancy yarn. The fancy yarn is guided through a sensor device in a spinning device after it is formed and the diameter of the fancy yarn is continuously measured by the sensor device. The fancy configuration of the produced yarn is determined on the basis of the measured values of the diameter and is compared with the predetermined fancy configuration. The comparison is carried out until sufficient correspondence between the predetermined fancy configuration and the fancy configuration of the optimized, produced yarn is achieved.
US07721518B2 Yarns for cut-resistant webbing and other products
Improved yarns the properties of which can be altered by heat treatment for various products are disclosed, as well as product made therewith and processes thereof. The yarns of the invention comprise a multifilamentary core of a comparatively lower melting point material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene, which is wrapped in both S and Z directions (that is, both clockwise and counterclockwise) by multifilamentary strands of a higher melting point material, such as polyester. For providing cut and abrasion resistance to webbing and products made therefrom, such as cargo lifting slings and the like, on the order of 8-12 such yarns are woven into the edges of webbing material, such that they contact one another. Upon heat treatment, the material of the multifilamentary core melts to the extent that it wicks into and “wets out” the material of the multifilamentary wrappers; upon cooling, the filaments of the wrapper are disposed in a solidified matrix of the core material, forming a comparatively hard, tough material, and the adjacent yarns are bonded to one another to some degree.
US07721517B2 Hybrid electric tool carrier
A hybrid utility vehicle includes a tool-supporting frame and an electrical power source driven by an engine. Right and left rear wheels independently driven by permanent magnet electric motors and front wheels electrically steerable over a range of approximately 180 degrees operate under the control of a vehicle controller responsive to steering and speed input controls to provide zero turn radius operation with minimum slippage and tire scuffing. Space efficiency provided by the electric. steering and an electrically driven tool deck facilitate a variety of tool mounting configurations including a rear discharge deck with a chute passing under the vehicle frame between the driven wheels. An inverter connected to the electrical power source provides 110/220 volt output. The power source also functions as a high powered, high rpm, low noise starter motor.
US07721512B2 Automated solid pharmaceutical product packaging machine
A fully automated pharmaceutical product packaging machine is capable of selectively depositing one or more different solid pharmaceutical products into an individual cavity for each of a plurality of individual patient product package cavities. The system employs a plurality of solid pharmaceutical product dispensing canisters which are capable of selectively dispensing a pre-designated number of solid pharmaceutical products. The machine fills a template containing temporary storage cavities and the template is automatically positioned over a sheet of clear plastic material containing a plurality of cavities corresponding to the cavities in the template. A barrier between the cavities in the template and the sheet of clear plastic material is moved and the pharmaceuticals in the template cavities drop into the corresponding cavities in the clear plastic sheet of material. The clear plastic sheet of material is then maneuvered into subsequent product packaging stations and the template is returned to beneath the canister region.
US07721510B2 Vial capping device and vial capping method
A vial capping device includes a cap installation ring, a holding device, a movement device, and a tightening motor. The cap installation ring has an inner periphery thread to be threadedly engaged with a thread of an outer peripheral surface of a cap. The holding device holds a vial during fastening. The movement device brings a thread of the inner peripheral surface of the cap attached to the cap installation ring and an opening of the vial closer to each other. The tightening motor rotates one or both of the cap installation ring engaged with the cap and the holding device holding the vial. Thus, the vial capping device with a simple construction reliably fastens the cap to the vial.
US07721508B2 Tablet filling device
A tablet filling device to convey a vial to a tablet cassette for receiving tablets easily and reliably. The tablet filling device includes: a detachable tablet feeding unit including a plurality of tablet feeders capable of discharging tablets one by one and arranged horizontally and vertically; and an arm unit that carries an empty vial, fills the vial with tablets discharged from a tablet feeder of the tablet feeding unit, and carries the vial filled with the tablets. The arm unit includes: a perpendicularly moving base movable horizontally and vertically along a horizontal rail and a vertical rail, respectively, the rails provided in directions in which the tablet feeders of the tablet feeding unit are arranged; an arm base on the perpendicularly moving base to be slidable in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the horizontal rail and horizontally rotatable; and an arm, on the arm base, capable of holding the vial.
US07721503B2 Locking system comprising a combination lock for panels
A locking system for a floor panel includes a first connecting device, a second connecting device, and a third connecting device. The first connecting device includes a combination lock including an upwardly directed locking element configured to cooperate with a locking groove. The combination lock further including a flexible tongue in a displacement groove. The displacement groove and the flexible tongue of the combination lock are configured to cooperate with a tongue of a third connecting device.
US07721498B2 Floor system
Disclosed herein is a floor system for efficiently absorbing an impact applied to a floor. The floor system includes a first impact-absorbing material, and a second impact-absorbing material installed at an upper side of the first impact-absorbing material and having a higher density than that of the first impact-absorbing material.
US07721496B2 Composite decking material and methods associated with the same
A construction member includes a composite material offering strength and functionality. Embodiments of the present invention include a thermoplastic composite for use in applications such as decking, exterior siding, seating and furniture. In one embodiment, a structural member includes a glass-reinforced PVC core surrounded by a thermoplastic layer that further includes a thermoplastic with elastomer thermofoamed layer as a exterior layer. All three components can be extruded and bond together to form a composite material that offers appropriate structural strength with resistance to heating from sunlight.
US07721494B2 Strengthening device to increase strength of grout layer
Provided is a strengthening device to increase the strength of a grout layer. In the strengthening device, clamp members are interconnected and clamped to surround a grout layer on a concrete base, on which an upper structure is installed, so as to increase the strength of the grout layer. Connection members are provided to edges of the clamp members to connect the clamp members. Fastening means is fastened between the connection members in order to enable the clamp members to clamp the grout layer. This strengthening device acts as a mold to facilitate easy construction when grout is placed, and surrounds the grout layer to increase the strength of the grout layer after grout is cured, thereby effectively preventing and minimizing failure of the grout layer caused by loads transferred from an upper structure such as a column member or a bridge bearing.
US07721492B2 Strut runner member and assembly using same for mounting arrays on rooftops and other structures
A strut runner includes a member extending lengthwise in a first direction, where the member includes an underlying panel and one or more walls that extend from the panel. The member may be configured to at least partially support the panel array while being integrated or directly connected to the underlying structure. Additionally, the strut runner may include one or more peripheral extensions that extend a distance outward from the body.